Sinn Fein Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has said he was extremely concerned at the postponement of smear tests across the state and said the delay is causing significant worry for many women.

Teachta Crowe said that early intervention and identification of cancer was vital and lifesaving and while he accepted that Minister for Health Simon Harris was extremely busy with the COVID-19 pandemic, other lifesaving elements of the health service should not be neglected or left behind during this crisis.

Teachta Seán Crowe said:

“I want to join with many women’s organisations, civil society, and health focussed groups in expressing my concern at the postponement of cancer smear tests across the state.

“My constituency office has had a number of phone calls from women extremely upset and worried at the postponement of smear tests by GPs and other service providers.

“It is understandable that certain healthcare provisions have had to be postponed during the COVID 19 Pandemic, but it is a worrying development that smear tests, even in emergency cases, are being postponed.

“I know that some of the women who have contacted my office and other Sinn Fein TDs say they have had their tests postponed for almost two months now, with no real plan as to when they will be rescheduled and carried out again.

“Timely intervention is critical when it comes to healthcare, and particularly when it comes to screening for cervical cancer.

“Cervical screening is not a test for cancer; it is a test to help prevent cancer from developing. Early intervention saves lives.

“There needs to be a pathway for women to have their smear tests carried out, especially for those in high risk categories or those who have had symptoms of possible cervical cancer.

“We know that smear tests for women can save lives and are a vital element in identifying and stopping the growth of cervical cancer.

“While I accept that the Minister for Health has been extremely busy and occupied with the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is not acceptable or anyway excusable that other lifesaving elements of our health service should be left neglected or left behind during this crisis.”