Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan, has welcomed the Central Bank (Amendment) Bill 2025 passing Committee Stage in the Dáil, describing it as an important step forward in introducing a statutory “Right to Be Forgotten” for cancer survivors.
Deputy McGreehan and Minister Catherine Ardagh introduced the legislation as a Private Members’ Bill to ensure people who have completed cancer treatment are not unfairly penalised when applying for mortgage protection insurance.
The amendments cut the cancer remission period to five years, raises the mortgage protection insurance disregard to €650,000, and allows standard underwriting above that level.
The threshold will be reviewed every five years in line with housing prices and stakeholder input.
Deputy McGreehan said:
“The Bill passing through the Committee Stage in the Dáil represents a significant step forward.
“This legislation is grounded in fairness. Individuals who have completed cancer treatment should not face unnecessary barriers when seeking to secure a home for themselves and their families.
“The decision by Government to progress and strengthen this Bill ensures that these protections will be placed on a clear statutory footing.
“Many cancer survivors have been waiting for this change, and today’s decision brings us closer to delivering it.”
Deputy McGreehan acknowledged those involved in advancing the legislation:
“I acknowledge the work of my colleague Robert Troy, together with Simon Harris and former Minister for Finance Michael McGrath, in progressing this matter at Government level.
“I also wish to recognise Michael J. McGrath, Assistant Secretary General in the Department of Finance, for his work on this legislation.
“I also recognise the Irish Cancer Society, former Head of Advocacy Rachel Morrogh, and the many stakeholders who have contributed to this process over a number of years.
“In particular, I want to thank the patient advocates who have shared their experiences and campaigned so strongly for change. Their voices have been central to shaping this legislation and ensuring it reflects the real lived experience of cancer survivors.
“This progress reflects a sustained and collective effort.”
Concluding, Deputy McGreehan said:
“This legislation will provide clarity and certainty for cancer survivors and will ensure they are treated fairly in accessing mortgage protection insurance.
“I look forward to working with colleagues across the Oireachtas to ensure its enactment and to the point at which it is signed into law by the President.”
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
ENDS
