The European Commission has called for a different approach to breast cancer detection. A key recommendation is to extend breast cancer screening to include women between the ages of 45 and 74. In Ireland the screening process for women is between the ages of 50 and 69. A total of 23% of all women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer are between the ages of 20 and 50. Will the Minister confirm that the Government will consider the recommendation of the European Commission to lower the screening age for breast cancer?

I thank Deputy Kenny for raising this issue. I do not have a specific answer to hand. I will ask the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, to revert to the Deputy on any consideration being given to changing the age eligibility for the breast cancer screening programme.