Labour calls for cancer screening leave
- Early detection saves lives
Labour’s Health Spokesperson, Duncan Smith TD, speaking about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, has called for urgent action to remove barriers to cancer screening attendance.
Deputy Smith said:
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of early detection in the fight against cancer. That’s why it needs to be as easy as possible for everyone to attend health screenings.
“Earlier this year, I proposed the Health Screening Leave Bill which aims to give workers statutory leave to attend essential health screenings for cancers like breast, cervical, and colon.
“We know that early detection is the most powerful weapon in the fight against cancer. Workers with inflexible employers or those in precarious working arrangements are forced to navigate between holiday entitlements or sick leave just to attend a health screening appointment.
“Labour’s Health Screening Leave Bill is a common-sense solution that prioritises public health. It gives workers the right to look after themselves without fear of financial hardship.
“Every family in Ireland has been touched by cancer in some way. Early detection saves lives, and we cannot afford to wait. Labour’s Health Screening Leave Bill is a necessary step towards ensuring that everyone has the support they need to prioritise their health. It’s time for Government action.”
The Leave for Health Screening Purposes Bill is available here.