Right to be Forgotten after Cancer: Access to financial services and products

woman worried about bills

There are now more than 200,000 cancer survivors in Ireland today. Thanks to advancements in treatment and screening, 6 in 10 people survive their cancer diagnosis. 

The Irish Cancer Society asked Core Research to look at the experiences of people affected by cancer when seeking access to financial products and services. We found that 3 in 5 people affected by cancer found it difficult to access financial products, like life insurance, and mortgage and income protection insurance. Refusal and unfair treatment were the most common reported difficulties. This leaves people feeling anxious, distressed, and demoralised due to uncertainties around underwriting decisions.

The Irish Cancer Society advocates on behalf of people affected by cancer. We provide secretarial support to the Oireachtas Cross-Party Group on Cancer and presented our findings to TDs and Senators in this forum. In October 2022, draft legislation was co-signed by Senators Catherine Ardagh, Jerry Buttimer and Paul Gavin. Unfortunately, the legislation did not progress.

In April 2023, Insurance Ireland, following discussions with the Irish Cancer Society, announced its intention to launch a Code of Practice. Under the Code, a cancer diagnosis will not be taken into consideration for mortgage protection insurance 7 years after active treatment has finished (5 years for a person diagnosed under age 18). Insurance Ireland members can sign up to the Code, which took effect on 6 December 2023.

The Society welcomes each of these developments and will continue to call for the government to legislate the Right to be Forgotten After Cancer.

Contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line

If you have worries or concerns about cancer, you can speak confidentially to an Irish Cancer Society Cancer Nurse through the Freephone Support Line on 1800 200 700 or email supportline@irishcancer.ie

Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm