Irish Cancer Society welcomes supports for women affected by CervicalCheck scandal

Chief Executive of the Irish Cancer Society Averil Power said, “When we met Minister Harris last week, we stressed that he must ensure the women affected by this scandal get both the answers they deserve about what went wrong and the supports they need to cope with their cancer diagnosis. Each of these women is different and has individual needs. Some need help getting access to the best medicines, while others require support with financial needs such as childcare and transport costs. It is also essential they can all avail of free counselling if they wish.

“We welcome the fact the Government has responded to this request and is making a package of supports available to all 209 women and the families of those who have tragically passed away. Nothing can undo the hurt and pain that has been caused to them but hopefully these supports will help them in some way.

“The Irish Cancer Society will also continue to help everyone affected by this issue in any way we can. The compassionate and specially trained cancer nurses on our freephone Nurseline 1800 200 700 are there for anyone who needs information, advice or support. We have also provided funding for free counselling sessions at 25 of our affiliated centres across the country. I urge anyone with concerns about this, or any aspect of cancer, to reach out and we will do our best to help”, she concluded.