Cancer patients in west waiting too long - Mayo councillor demands action

LIVES are at risk due to delays in cancer treatment, a Mayo Independent Councillor has hit out.

Councillor Harry Barrett has called on every government TD and senator in the county to 'speak out now to demand action on the serious delays in cancer treatment in the west of Ireland'.

The latest figures from the Irish Cancer Society show that patients in Galway University Hospital are waiting far too long to start chemotherapy - seven to eight weeks in many cases, explained Councillor Barrett. That’s four times longer than the target in the National Cancer Strategy, which says treatment should start within 15 working days.

“This is not just a delay, it’s downright dangerous,” said Councillor Barrett. “Dr. Michael McCarthy, a cancer specialist in Galway, says these delays are part of a 'postcode lottery' that is costing lives. And he’s right.

“Where you live should never decide how soon you get cancer treatment.”

He continued: “People across Mayo and the west are being left behind. Patients are waiting for scans, tests, and treatment far longer than in other parts of the country.

“That’s not fair, and it’s not safe.

“I’m calling on the government to invest in cancer services in the west, especially more staff and resources in Galway, make sure people here get chemotherapy and other treatment on time, and use Budget 2026 to fix the gaps in staffing, equipment and space.

“Every person with cancer deserves fast, equal care - no matter where they live.

“The current system is failing people in the west, and it has to change now.”