Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew has called on the Health Minister to provide assurances to the public over the protection of cancer services and other non-Covid treatment.

The party’s Health Spokesperson said:

“I have heard from many constituents about the cancellation of urgent cancer treatments and other procedures. This is happening right across the health system.

“The Health Minister needs to take responsibility and action to address the cancellation of urgent cancer treatments, it is not enough to suggest that it’s a matter for Health Trusts’ to deal with.

“Since June we have been getting assurances from the department of health that the process of rebuilding health services would proceed even within the prevailing COVID-19 situation.

“While patients understand the additional pressures that the health and social care system is facing, it’s unacceptable that they are not receiving the urgent care they require.

“Patients need certainty and guarantees that their procedures will go ahead, they should not be left feeling anxious and worried.

 “The Minister must immediately put plans in place to ensure cancer patients are receiving the urgent care and treatment they require.”