Budget 2027 comes at a pivotal moment for cancer care in Ireland.

The National Cancer Strategy 2017–2026 concludes this year.  Government has indicated that the current Strategy will be evaluated to inform the development of its successor. While the evaluation is expected to take place later in 2026, no detailed timetable has been published for its completion or for the development and publication of the next National Cancer Strategy.

Budget 2027 must ensure there is no gap in national cancer policy, funding or delivery.

Around one in two people in Ireland will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. Behind that statistic are thousands of people and families who need access to prevention, earlier diagnosis, timely treatment and support, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.

We are calling on the Government to:

• Publish and fund a successor National Cancer Strategy.
• Expand National Cancer Screening Programmes and progress a National Lung Cancer Screening Programme.
• Deliver faster access to new cancer medicines.
• Fund an Early Access Programme that includes cancer medicines.
• Invest in reducing cancer inequalities and improving access for underserved communities.
• Improve support for people living with Advanced Cancer.

Budget 2027 is a critical opportunity to help shape the future of cancer care in Ireland and lay the foundations for a properly funded successor National Cancer Strategy.

Every person affected by cancer should have the opportunity to benefit from the best available prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.

The Marie Keating Foundation looks forward to working with Government to deliver these priorities.

You can read our 2027 Pre-Budget Submission in full here 2027 Pre-Budget Submission Marie Keating Foundation FINAL