The North Belfast MLA she was speaking after new statistics showed that just 6% of people with an urgent referral for suspected breast cancer are being seen by Health Trusts within the 14-day target, with some waiting over 10 weeks to see a doctor.

The party’s Health Spokesperson also warned that many clinicians are working overtime to deal with urgent referrals across the health service – posing a major risk that they will become burnt out and treatment waiting times will deteriorate even further.

“It is appalling that such a small fraction of people with an urgent referral for suspected breast cancer are being seen by their Health Trust within the target waiting time”, Ms McAllister said.

“We know that early detection and treatment are absolutely vital for breast cancer survival rates, so for some patients to be waiting more than 10 weeks to see a doctor – five times longer than they’re supposed to – is a scathing indictment of how little progress the Minister has made in delivering fit-for-purpose breast cancer services. These patients are being badly let down.

“I am also acutely aware that many clinicians are working overtime and running themselves into the ground to try to deal with urgent referrals for breast cancer and other conditions. When these hardworking doctors burn themselves out and can no longer provide that extra capacity, there is a real risk that waiting times will get even worse.

“When these statistics were released today, the Health Minister thought it appropriate to release a public statement patting himself on the back about the current state of breast cancer care. I would much rather he set out his plan to deliver the workforce and service capacity that is so desperately needed by local breast cancer patients who are waiting months to get help.”