Cullinane calls for increased cancer services in Waterford

Waterford TD and Sinn Féin Healthcare spokesperson David Cullinane has called on the government to invest further in cancer services in Waterford.

“Every year, 44,000 people receive a cancer diagnosis. Behind every number is a person and a family waiting anxiously for tests, results and treatment. Too many are still waiting too long,” Deputy Cullinane said.

The Sinn Féin TD zeroed in on a regional imbalance in relation to Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanners. PET scanners are used to detect early signs of cancer.

“Cancer outcomes in Ireland lag behind comparable countries because our system does not have the staff, beds or diagnostic equipment to meet growing demand. Denmark, for example, has more than five times as many PET scanners per person as Ireland.

“The Irish Cancer Society made clear that there are serious regional gaps in access to PET scanners, and that they are vital for appropriate and accurate diagnosis at the early stages of cancer. These gaps must be closed urgently.

“Cancer services cannot be left to compete for resources year after year – they need certainty and sustained support,” he said.

Total government cancer funding for 2025 was €41 million.

“There must be at least €20 million in additional day-to-day funding for cancer services next year, alongside significant capital investment in new and replacement equipment, including PET scanners,” Deputy Cullinane said.

“The people of the South East, and indeed the West and Mid-West, should not have to travel long distances for essential scans. Delivering PET scanners in Waterford, Galway and Limerick is essential to ensure fair access to timely diagnosis and treatment.

“I will continue to press the government to deliver the investment needed so that every patient, no matter where they live, has timely access to world-class cancer care.”