Sinn Féin spokesperson on Health, David Cullinane TD, has noted the publication of the National Endometriosis Framework and said that the plan must be fully resourced, strategically implemented, and deliver the gold standard of care for women across Ireland.
Teachta Cullinane said:
“A framework is only as strong as the resources behind it. Endometriosis affects one in seven women in Ireland – around 300,000 women – with an estimated 30,000 requiring immediate surgical intervention. Yet access to timely diagnosis and treatment remains fragmented and unequal across the country.
“If this framework is to make a real difference, it must deliver the gold standard of care – excision surgery – and be backed by investment, staffing, and a clear plan to build capacity at home so that women are no longer forced to travel abroad for a diagnosis or treatment.
“Under this plan, only 100 surgeries will be carried out on top of the 1,200 surgeries already scheduled. This is woefully inadequate and lacks ambition.”
Sinn Féin has called for:
More capacity within Ireland so women do not have to travel abroad for care
A regionally balanced service that reduces waiting lists and ensures equal access statewide
A Centre of Excellence capable of providing the gold standard in multidisciplinary and advanced excision surgery
Expanded and enhanced services in Tallaght University Hospital through investment in multidisciplinary teams – including pain management, physiotherapy, psychology, and dietetics – and upgrades in diagnostic and surgical equipment to support advanced laparoscopic procedures
Fully staffing Cork University Maternity Hospital by recruiting and retaining specialist consultants and allied health professionals
Greater research and data collection to inform national policy and improve clinical outcomes
A streamlined funding mechanism for patients who must travel abroad for diagnosis or surgery
Teachta Cullinane added:
“Women have waited far too long for care and demand a model of care that listens, believes, and acts. The publication of a framework is only the beginning – it must now be matched with resources, staffing, and accountability.
“Sinn Féin will hold the government to account to ensure that this plan delivers faster diagnosis, equitable access, and world-class treatment for every woman in Ireland.”