Cancer services protest

MORE than 150 people staged a silent protest yesterday against plans to withdraw most of the cancer services provided at Tralee General Hospital in Kerry.

It is one of numerous hospitals around the country due to lose services to eight specialised cancer centres under plans to improve treatment of the disease.

However, the West Kerry Action Group which organised yesterday’s event at the entrance to the Tralee hospital, said such a move should not be necessary in the 21st century.

“With all the technology available, they should be able to send the relevant diagnostic, testing and other information between centres electronically or digitally,” said chairwoman Brigid O’Connor. “People are already having to travel from parts of Kerry up to Cork a couple of times a week for treatment, but they still prefer to come home every evening.”

Ms O’Connor said the extra travelling involved in being treated at centres of excellence would also make it more difficult for families of cancer patients to support loved ones.

Tralee General Hospital treats around 50 cancer patients a year, but most would probably have to travel long distances for treatment under the Government plans.

West Kerry Action Group plans to send its concerns in writing to Health Minister Mary Harney and Professor Tom Keane, director of the National Cancer Control Programme. Following his arrival from Canada, he said last week he is surprised that travelling for cancer care is such a significant issue here. However, he has said the transport concerns raised by campaign groups would be taken on board in developing a cancer strategy.