Fine Gael TD for Dun Laoghaire, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, said today (Tuesday) the decision to extend BreastCheck to 65-69 year olds in 2015 demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of Irish women.

Deputy Mitchell O’Connor said: “I have been a strong advocate of the extension of the BreastCheck programme since my election to Dáil Éireann in 2011. I passionately believe this decision, announced by the Minister for Health Leo Varadkar TD as part of Budget 2015, will contribute to improving the health of older women in Ireland and preventing breast cancer.

“Earlier this week, I urged the Government to extend the BreastCheck programme to include women up to age 69. Breast cancer survival in Ireland has improved significantly in recent years due to the combined approach of screening, symptomatic detection and improved treatment.

“Early detection is a key part of the battle against breast cancer. According to the Irish Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the country. Breast cancer is most commonly found in those over the age of 50.

“October is breast cancer awareness month and today’s Budget announcement will better arm us to fight this disease.”