Northern Ireland’s Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has unveiled the nation’s first ever Cancer Research Strategic Framework, a landmark plan to strengthen cancer research, innovation and collaboration across the region.
The Framework sets out a clear roadmap for:
- Enhancing research excellence
- Removing barriers to participation
- Increasing clinical trial access
- Improving outcomes for cancer patients
Building on the ambitions of the NI Cancer Strategy and aligning with the Health and Care Reset Plan, the Framework aims to create a world-leading health and care research ecosystem in Northern Ireland.
A new Cancer Research Advisory Group will oversee delivery, co-chaired by Professor Ian Young, Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department of Health, and Professor Mark Lawler, Chair in Translational Cancer Genomics at Queen’s University Belfast
Cancer Research UK will also play a key role as a member of the Advisory Group, ensuring strong collaboration between government, academia and the voluntary sector.
Mike Nesbitt, Northern Ireland’s Health Minister, said:
“This Framework demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening cancer research in Northern Ireland. By uniting expertise across health and social care, academia, industry and the voluntary sector, we can accelerate progress and deliver real improvements in prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
“Our researchers and clinicians already make an outstanding contribution to cancer care. This Framework ensures they are supported to continue that work, driving innovation that will translate directly into better outcomes for patients. I am very grateful to everyone who has contributed to its development.”
The launch of this framework reinforces Northern Ireland’s growing reputation for excellence in health research and innovation, underlining the Department’s commitment to harnessing world-class science to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
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