Smith calls for paid time off for cancer screenings

Labour’s Health Spokesperson Duncan Smith has announced the introduction of the Health Screening Leave Bill, which aims to provide all workers with paid time off for cancer scans, recognising the critical importance of early detection in the fight against cancer.

The Labour TD said “cancer has touched every family in Ireland. We know early detection is paramount in the fight against cancer, and screening is a vital tool in identifying potential risks at the earliest stages.”

At present, there is no legislation that proves statutory leave for workers for attend HSE health screening appointments for cervical, breast, or colon cancer, and Smith has said that Labour’s bill would look to rectify the situation.

He said that should the bill pass, it would provide necessary support for workers to prioritise their health without facing financial hardship or job insecurity.

“Workers with inflexible employers or those in precarious working arrangements are forced to navigate between holiday entitlements or sick leave just to attend a health screening appointment. This bill ensures that workers, regardless of age, gender, or employment status, can access paid leave for screening,” he said.

“While the necessity for leave to attend health screenings may not arise frequently, its impact is profound. We know one missed appointment could mean the difference between early intervention and a devastating diagnosis. This bill aims to prioritise health above all else.”