Minister confirms funding for Tipperary Community Cancer Support Services

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has confirmed funding from the 2025 Budget for Tipperary as part of the National Cancer Strategy.

The 2025 Budget includes new investment in cancer services at national level of €41 million, including an allocation of €5.5 million to the Alliance of Community Cancer Support and Service at national level.

CARE Cancer Support Centre, Circle of Friends Cancer Support, Suaimhneas Cancer Support Center and Suir Haven Cancer Support Center are members of the Alliance and will receive funding in 2025.

Minister Donnelly said: “I am pleased to allocate €5.5 million in Budget 2025 to the NCCP Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centers and Services. Centers such as CARE Cancer Support, Circle of Friends, Suaimhneas and Suir Haven in Tipperary provide vital services for cancer patients in communities across Ireland, both adults and children. They do a great job of ensuring that National Survivorship Programs are available across Ireland. This government values ​​the dedication of the staff and volunteers who make these centers possible.

“As Minister for Health, I was pleased to allocate one-off State funding to our community support service for the first time in 2024. This year’s allocation of €5.5 million represents an increase in this funding in 2025 and it will become permanent, annual funding. .”

The total cancer funding for 2025 of €41 million includes:

• An additional 179 staff will be recruited to national cancer screening and treatment services to continue improving access and outcomes for cancer patients under the National Cancer Strategy
• €4.8 million for expanding the BreastCheck program and for expanding participation in the BowelScreen program from 59-69 year olds to 58-70 year olds
• €10.1 million for cancer control activities, cancer treatments and the Hereditary Cancer Model of Care to improve patient access and expand access to new treatments. This includes specialized radiology posts and advanced exercise therapy posts
• €0.7 million for expansion of the nursing service for acute oncology/hematology to help cancer patients avoid unnecessary attendance at the emergency department (ED)
• €2 million for post-mastectomy products in the community
• €5.5 million will be allocated to the Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centers and Services

The National Cancer Strategy aims to transform cancer services across prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life, with a focus on improving outcomes for cancer patients.