Fine Gael TD for Dun Laoghaire, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, today (Wednesday) hosted a breakfast in Leinster House to mark Breast Health Day 2014.

“This morning’s breakfast in, in co-operation with Europa Donna Ireland and Coviden, to mark Breast Health Day 2014 was a fantastic success. Irish chef Domini Kemp, who has survived breast cancer, was our guest speaker and shared her insights into battling and surviving the disease. The event was very well supported by my colleagues across all parties.

“I am delighted that this Breast Health day comes a week after Budget 2015 extended BreakCheck screening to women between 65 and 69 years old. BreastCheck currently provides free mammograms and a recall program to all eligible women aged 50-64 years. The decision demonstrates the Government’s commitment to women’s health and will greatly contribute to more early detections of the disease.

“Breast cancer survival in Ireland has improved significantly in recent years. Screenings are very important to women’s health as early detection is key in the battle against breast cancer. According to the Irish Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the country and is most commonly found in those over the age of 50.

“I passionately believe that we must do all we can to prevent this disease in as many instances as possible. I am proud to give my time and effort to this cause and I thank all of my colleagues in Leinster House for their support for today’s event.