Robbie Butler, Health Minister, stated that recent data regarding cancer waiting times highlights the magnitude of the task facing the health service.
The figures for breast cancer indicate a reduction in median wait time from 56 days recorded in September 2025 to 38 days by June 2026.
Addressing the backlog, £5 million has been invested through the Elective Care Framework to support regional improvements.
This funding established a Breast Operational Delivery Network and increased clinic capacity to assist with patient care delays.
Programme for Government resources have been specifically targeted at cutting waits for cancer diagnostics and treatment in accordance with the framework.
The minister emphasised that consistent leadership is essential to drive further improvement more rapidly.
As a newly appointed minister, Butler expressed a desire to explore opportunities to accelerate progress in this area.
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