BreastCheck unit will not be withdrawn from Clare

The National Screening Service confirmed the Ennis unit is a mobile facility that operates on a rotating basis and will return to Ennis when the next round of screening is due

Concerns were raised locally regarding the planned departure of the BreastCheck mobile unit from Ennis on October 30, prompting a public petition and discussion about access to breast screening in Clare.

A mobile BreastCheck unit will not be withdrawn from Co Clare, it has been confirmed, after “very worried women” were advised to book their appointments in surrounding counties.

Concerns were raised locally regarding the planned departure of the BreastCheck mobile unit from Ennis on October 30, prompting a public petition and discussion about access to breast screening in Clare.

In a response to a query from local Fianna Fáil councillor Rita McInerney, the National Screening Service confirmed the Ennis unit was a mobile facility that operates on a rotating basis, moving between locations around the country and returning to Ennis when the next round of screening is due.

The unit has been based at Clare County Council Offices in Ennis since February 2024 and is now completing its current round of screening. 

The National Screening Service also confirmed women in Clare may be offered appointments at other locations, including Limerick and Gort, depending on where the mobile units are operating. 

Women can request an alternative appointment or location if their invitation does not suit them.

Ms McInerney said: “I contacted the National Screening Service directly, and I welcome the confirmation that BreastCheck services are not being withdrawn from the county. 

"However, the fact that a service continues to operate does not mean that we should not examine whether it is meeting the needs of women in Clare. 

"A mobile unit moving between locations is the national model of service delivery, but we must consider the practical implications for women who may have to travel outside their county to attend an appointment."

Ms McInerney confirmed a motion would be brought forward to seek further updates on BreastCheck provision in Clare, calling for a permanent breast screening facility in the county.