We warmly welcome the news from Budget 2025 by Minister Stephen Donnelly in a letter to the Marie Keating Foundation of €2 million in increased funding to standardise allowances for post-mastectomy and hair loss products for women following cancer related treatment across Ireland.

This vital support ensures that every woman—no matter where she lives or her medical card status—will now have equal access to allowances for items such as prosthetic bras, breast prostheses, swimwear, wigs and hairpieces as needed. These products play a significant role in helping women regain confidence and comfort following surgery and treatment for breast cancer.

We are especially encouraged by the assurance from the Health Service Executive that no woman will be financially disadvantaged under this new arrangement and that this measure will reflect the highest level of current support available.

This isn’t just about funding – it’s about fairness, dignity and the reassurance that no woman will be left behind or financially disadvantaged in her recovery journey.

We want to thank the Minister, the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive for listening to women’s voices and responding with such a positive and transformative action.

This step forward is a reflection of what happens when advocacy and compassion meet commitment.

Thank you to all involved in making this happen — we hope it brings comfort and relief to those who need it most.