Branches all around the country can now organise a free workplace presentation provided by Breast Cancer Ireland. 

The programme officially launched on Wednesday, 24th September ahead of Breast Cancer awareness month in October. It aims to educate members on the early warning signs of breast cancer and the importance of self-checking. 

Juliette O’Connell, BCI outreach coordinator and breast cancer survivor, will be travelling the length and breadth of the country to give presentations on the eight signs and symptoms to watch out for and teach members how to perform a breast examination properly, using a medical mannequin.  

Left to right: Juliette O'Connell, BCI, Ursula Cox, NEC, Jean Taylor, NEC, Julie Flood senior vice president, Clodagh Kavanagh, NEC, and Alex Kelly, BCI

Fórsa senior vice president Julie Flood said that she was “delighted and proud to launch our Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in conjunction with Breast Cancer Ireland and Cornmarket.” 

She explained that raising awareness in workplaces is an extremely important step in assisting early detection and can also save lives. “Breast Cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women, and most women find a change in their breasts themselves.” 

Highlighting the importance of the campaign, Julie Flood emphasised: “This initiative will educate our members on risk factors and symptoms, encourage self-examination, promote regular screenings and help to dispel myths about breast cancer.” 

Fórsa President Martin Walsh throwing his support behind the campaign.

Fórsa President Martin Walsh said: “We encourage all members to organise these free events and promote attendance at these presentations in their workplaces. We hope the impact of this programme will be significant and believe it has the potential to really make a difference to so many people.” 

The presentation is free of charge and will be available in Fórsa workplaces nationwide. By contacting Alex Kelly in Breast Cancer Ireland, branches can book a session at a time and date that suits your workplace. Branches can invite members and colleagues to attend, or could consider organising a session in conjunction with a branch Annual General Meeting (AGM). The programme will be delivered in a phased approach by region. 

You can register your interest in a presentation for your workplace by emailing: alex@bciresearch.ie and forsa@bciresearch.ie.

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