Varadkar: Cancer vow dependent on funding

Health Minister Leo Varadkar has insisted he cannot deliver on a government promise, made three years ago, that could save 87 lives yearly unless he secures additional money.

The Irish Cancer Society is demanding the extension of BreastCheck to women aged 65-69 who have the second-highest incidence of breast cancer and the second-highest chance of dying from it.

Speaking at a conference for cancer survivors that was organised by the society, Mr Varadkar said he was keen to introduce the screening extension but had to ensure there was enough money to maintain existing services.