Children with cancer 'denied basic treatment’

Thousands of children with cancer are being denied basic treatment, according to campaigners.

The majority who contract the disease are from developing countries, up to 80% die, and some aren't even given morphine for pain.

Cancer groups, such as the Barretstown organisation and the newly launched Teenage and Childhood Cancer Uniting Parents group, say that treatment could save up to 100,000 lives a year if more money was pledged.

The call comes on International Childhood Cancer Day.

In Dublin, Lord Mayor Royston Brady and Junior Minister for Children, Brian Lenihan, are marking the day by releasing 200 balloons into the sky outside the Mansion House.