Fine Gael Leader, Enda Kenny, TD, has welcomed the decision to provide the HVP vaccine to all girls in first year of secondary school and the announcement of a national colorectal screening service. This will have profound health benefits for future generations and avoid much of the suffering associated with these diseases.
Deputy Kenny said: “The recent announcement that the HVP vaccine will be provided along with the colorectal screening service is a positive step forward for Irish healthcare. This is a national programme that will also be provided in Co Mayo and I look forward to more details emerging from the Department in the near future. I am delighted that the Minister for Health and Children followed the Fine Gael policy of ensuring that these vaccines are purchased in bulk providing greater value for money to the taxpayer.”
The move was also welcomed by Fianna Fáil Minister for Labour Affairs Dara Calleary. He said: “Colorectal cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and women in Ireland and I am delighted that serious progress is now being made on delivering a screening service.”
