PUBLIC debate has been dominated for quite some time by two issues and there is no indication that the agenda will change anytime soon.

Fears were raised almost six years ago about the standard of breast cancer care in the Midlands, it emerged today.

The Health Service Executive is due to publish a series of reports today into the cancer misdiagnosis scandal at the Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise.

The Health Service Executive has promised to appoint an independent expert to review how the organisation handled the Portlaoise cancer scandal.

The head of the HSE is expected to come under pressure in relation to the Portlaoise cancer scandal today when he gives his annual briefing to TDs and Senators at Leinster House.