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2 clusters · 2 sources · 10 days · First seen · Last updated

Ireland cancer strategy and treatment access

Overview

Ireland is facing challenges regarding its national cancer care framework and service delivery. As the National Cancer Strategy (2017–2026) approaches expiration, the Department of Health has announced an independent review by international experts to inform a successor plan. Advocacy groups, including the Irish Cancer Society and United Cancer Advocates Network (UCAN) Ireland, have called for a clear development timeline and meaningful patient involvement to avoid gaps in funding or strategic direction.

Simultaneously, data indicates issues with treatment access. In the first half of 2026, HSE figures showed that approximately one-in-five cancer patients in Ireland failed to begin radiotherapy within recommended timeframes, with the rate increasing from 19.3 per cent in the first quarter to 21.1 per cent in the second quarter. Surgical targets have also faced difficulties, with low compliance rates reported for lung and prostate cancer surgeries.

Entities

Health Service Executive · Jennifer Carroll MacNeill · St Luke’s Radiation Oncology Network · Icon Cancer Centre · Department of Health

Timeline

  1. 17 days ago

    [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Cancer treatment delays reported in Ireland and Australia

    New reports highlight cancer treatment challenges: one-in-five Irish patients missed radiotherapy targets in early 2026, while Australia’s Icon Cancer Centre publishes new transparency data on wait times.

  2. 27 days ago

    [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Ireland faces urgency as National Cancer Strategy nears expiration

    Ireland faces a looming expiration of its National Cancer Strategy, with advocacy groups calling for a new plan and clear development timeline by 2027 to ensure continuous strategic direction.

Sources

imt.ie · medicalrepublic.com.au