Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 December 2025
605. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Health how her Department intends to ensure national consistency in cancer care outcomes under a system where funding decisions will be largely devolved to HSE regions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [67887/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra612. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Health if performance targets will be introduced for each region in respect of the implementation of the National Cancer Strategy in 2026; the nature of these targets; and the way in which they will be monitored and enforced. [67905/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra613. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Health the additional resources being allocated in 2026 to address existing regional variations in cancer outcomes, including survival rates, early detection rates and treatment access; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [67906/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 605, 612 and 613 together.
Funding of €27.4 billion has been allocated to the health service for 2026. This represents an additional €1.5 billion and 3,300 additional staff across the health service. Each Regional Health Area is unique with different demographics and different healthcare needs. Next year a new approach is being taken to funding allocation with health budgets being devolved to the HSE regions, giving them greater autonomy to meet local needs while holding them accountable for ambitious targets and national standards, including in relation to cancer care.
The National Cancer Control Programme sets standards for cancer care and monitors performance across the regions. The NCCP will work with HSE leadership to ensure that regional variations are identified and addressed. This will ensure that resources are targeted at the areas of greatest need and that high quality care is provided consistently across the country.
The NCCP’s formal engagement with the health regions operates under mutually agreed Memorandums of Understanding with each Region. Each encompasses the full extent of the cancer pathway – prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care and follow-up and all major cancer services. Details of improvement plans will be considered in the context of the engagement between the NCCP and regional HSE leadership.
