Tánaiste opens new Cancer Connect centre in West Cork

Tánaiste Mícheál Martin has opened the new offices of a Bantry-based volunteer service that brings cancer sufferers to get treatment in Cork.

The opening of the Cancer Connect office in Bantry comes months after an appeal yielded funding of €50,000.

The funding allocation came two years after the centre had begun conversations with Mr Martin about getting support for the service.

Mr Martin said he was delighted to open the service’s new offices.

“This organisation provides an invaluable service to cancer patients throughout Cork county, and I want to thank the Cancer Connect staff and volunteers for the vital work they do,” said Mr Martin.

“This new office will further help Cancer Connect carry out their hugely important role in the community.”

Founded in 2011, Cancer Connect began as a local initiative in West Cork with just one staff member, providing transport services for patients attending cancer treatment in Cork.

Over the past 13 years, the service has grown to cover all of Co Cork, supported by a dedicated team of six staff and nearly 500 volunteer drivers.

The volunteers offer essential transport services for patients, making a profound impact on their lives.

In 2023, Cancer Connect recorded its busiest year ever, facilitating 6,774 passenger journeys, highlighting the critical need for such services.

As the demand has grown, so have the associated costs of running the service.

Over 200 community fundraising initiatives were held last year, demonstrating strong local support and ensuring the continued operation of Cancer Connect.