This matter is not in the Minister's area but it is important to raise it in the House. Last month was breast cancer awareness month. Two weeks ago, this House heard statements on breast cancer and its prevalence. Screening was one of the main issues to emerge from the debate. At the moment, screening for women is provided at age 50 and beyond. There is growing international evidence that lowering the age of routine screening to 40 years results in better detection and saves lives. When Sweden lowered the age to 40 years it saved hundreds of lives. Will the Government review breast cancer screening and reduce the screening age from 50 years to either 40 or 45 years?

I am really aware of the importance of our screening programmes and the vital role they play in the detection and treatment of diseases that can be life-altering and life-threatening. This is the reason, in the aftermath of the darkest periods of Covid, that the Government was so determined to try to get our screening programmes operational again and to encourage all who have concerns to attend and respond to the invitations for screening and check-ups.

Given the seriousness of this matter, I will not do it a disservice by seeking to deal with a specific question without having accurate information in front of me. I am sure the Minister for Health, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, is aware of it and I will ensure he reverts to the Deputy with a more detailed answer than I am in a position to give. I agree with the Deputy on the huge importance of this programme.