The Government needs to “stand with cancer survivors” and stop financial firms from discriminating against them, Lunchtime Live presenter Andrea Gilligan has said. 

So-called ‘Right to be Forgotten’ legislation would ban the practice but the bill has been reportedly delayed by the Government. 

“I know it’s an issue for many cancer survivors who haven’t been able to get life insurance,” Andrea said. 

“Some have but you’re often talking about much higher premiums and even outright refusals in some cases. 

“People who have gone through a cancer diagnosis, subsequent treatment, and then in remission for a number of years, they’re looking for the right to be forgotten. 

“So that, if they’re in remission, they’re actually able to go, get a mortgage and get life insurance cover for that loan. 

“And it’s not just cancer patients, I know many other people who have had to overcome medical illnesses - they too have experienced this [from] some of the financial services.” 

Screening for cervical cancer. 

A number of insurance companies have expressed concerns about the provisions of the bill but Andrea thinks the action has to be taken. 

“I know it’s been discussed by the Government over the past year or so and a bill has effectively been shelved for the meantime,” she said. 

“But I really do think politicians should stand with cancer survivors on this.”

Main image: Andrea Gilligan in the Newstalk studio. Image: Newstalk