Access to potentially life-saving cancer clinical trials in Ireland is increasingly unequal, with patients in some regions facing significant travel burdens and delays due to a critical shortage of research staff and a stark disparity in funding, an Oireachtas committee heard this week. The issue, experts say, isn’t a lack of promising research, but a systemic imbalance in how that research is supported and delivered across the country.
The concerns were raised during a meeting of the Joint Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science on March 18, 2026, where representatives from Cancer Trials Ireland and the Health Service Executive (HSE) detailed the challenges facing cancer research and patient access to trials. The core of the problem, according to Angela Clayton-Lea, CEO of Cancer Trials Ireland, is a funding model that heavily favors the capital, hindering recruitment and retention of vital personnel.
Uneven Funding Creates Regional Disparities
The financial imbalance is striking. Between 2021 and 2026, €10.8 million in public funding was allocated to cancer trial research programs in the east of Ireland. In contrast, the West North West region received just €600,000, with a similar amount allocated to Limerick. “That doesn’t buy an awful lot of manpower,” Dr. Veronica McInerney, cancer clinical trials programme manager for the HSE West and North West region, told the committee. This lack of funding translates directly into limited capacity to employ the specialist skills needed to conduct trials, leaving patients in those regions with fewer options.
Dr. McInerney highlighted the real-world consequences, citing the example of patients in Tullamore, County Offaly, who are forced to travel to Dublin or Galway to participate in clinical trials. This travel adds a significant burden to patients already facing the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment. The situation underscores a growing concern that access to cutting-edge cancer care is becoming increasingly dependent on geographic location.
Short-Term Contracts Hamper Staff Retention
Beyond funding disparities, the nature of employment contracts for research staff is also contributing to the problem. Clayton-Lea explained that in Dublin, specialist nurses and other staff often have the prospect of long-term employment, as one research project frequently leads to another. But, these positions are often tied to specific projects, making it difficult for staff to secure mortgages or establish long-term financial stability. This instability, she argued, makes it harder to attract and retain qualified professionals.
The impact of these contract issues extends beyond individual financial security. The constant cycle of recruitment and training associated with short-term contracts also disrupts the continuity of research and hinders the development of expertise within regional centers. This creates a vicious cycle where understaffed regions struggle to compete for and deliver on vital clinical trials.
The Evolution of Cancer Treatment and the Necessitate for Continued Research
The importance of ongoing cancer research was underscored by Clayton-Lea, who recalled a case from the early 2000s where a prostate cancer patient received 37 treatments of radiotherapy. Thanks to advancements developed through research, that treatment has now been reduced to just five sessions. This example illustrates the tangible benefits of investing in clinical trials and the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes.
Clayton-Lea explained that even after a drug is approved for use, further research is often needed to determine the optimal dosage and treatment schedule to minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness. This ongoing refinement of treatment protocols relies heavily on the availability of clinical trials and the dedicated staff to conduct them.
Nursing Workforce Challenges
The challenges facing cancer research are compounded by broader issues within the Irish nursing workforce. Dr. Raymond Healy, director of registration at the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland, informed the committee that Ireland is heavily reliant on nurses trained abroad, with over 5,000 first-time registrants coming from outside of Ireland last year. While the number of Irish-educated graduates remains stable, Healy cautioned that Ireland cannot assume this supply will continue indefinitely, particularly as other countries also face nursing shortages.
Interestingly, the number of Irish nurses seeking documentation to function abroad decreased from 5,000 in 2023 to 1,800 last year, suggesting a potential stabilization of the domestic workforce. However, the continued reliance on international recruitment highlights the need for long-term investment in nursing education and improved working conditions to attract and retain Irish-trained professionals.
The situation demands a comprehensive review of funding models and employment practices within cancer research. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial to ensuring that all cancer patients in Ireland have equitable access to potentially life-saving clinical trials. The Oireachtas committee is expected to issue a report with recommendations in the coming months, which will likely inform future policy decisions regarding cancer research funding and workforce planning.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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