570 people diagnosed with cancer every week in Ireland

As Daffodil Day 2015 launches today, The Irish Cancer Society say funds are needed more than ever as the demand for support and services increases.

570 people are diagnosed with cancer in Ireland every week, up 4% over the last three years.

The Society has announced a fundraising target of €3.5 million for this year's Daffodil Day, on March 27.

Any money raised goes directly to fund the work of the Society across cancer support, prevention, research and advocacy.

says night nursing is just one of the services that benefits from the event:

"We're hoping to raise €3.5m on daffodil day," said John McCormack, CEO of The Irish Cancer Society,

"Fundraising on daffodil day the thousands of volunteers will fund the work of the society over a whole range of services, and are night nursing service is one that is funded by daffodil day. Last year, we were able to fulfil 96% of the requests for a night nurse."

He said the public have stood by the Irish Cancer Society over the years, despite economic problems, and they are asking for further support this year as the demand on their services increases.