Cancer Survivors Gain Easier Access to Mortgage Protection Insurance in Ireland

Cancer survivors in Ireland will soon face fewer hurdles when applying for mortgage protection insurance, thanks to fresh government measures set to be enacted into law. The changes will allow individuals to access financial products on a more equal basis, removing a significant barrier to homeownership for those with a history of cancer.

The “Right to be Forgotten” After Cancer

For years, cancer survivors have faced difficulties securing mortgage protection insurance, even after achieving remission. The Irish Cancer Society has long campaigned for a “Right to be Forgotten” after cancer, advocating for a system where past diagnoses do not indefinitely impede access to essential financial services. The Irish Cancer Society has commissioned research and consulted with European cancer leagues to advocate for this change.

New Legislation and Remission Period

Under the new initiative, announced on March 20, 2026, banks and mortgage lenders will no longer be able to require cancer survivors to disclose their disease history after a period of five years in remission. This is a reduction from the previously proposed seven-year period, a change welcomed by patient advocates. Lydia Whelan, a breast cancer survivor, shared her experience, noting how a diagnosis halted her homeownership journey and emphasized the importance of a five-year remission period. As reported by the Irish Examiner, Whelan stated that a longer waiting period would “prolong the trauma” of her diagnosis.

Increased Coverage Threshold

In addition to the reduced remission period, the maximum sum assured for mortgage protection insurance has been increased from €500,000 to €650,000. This expansion of coverage will benefit a wider range of applicants. Tánaiste Simon Harris emphasized that a cancer diagnosis “should never define somebody’s financial future or inhibit them from owning their own home.”

How the Code of Practice Works

Although the government legislation is forthcoming, a voluntary Code of Practice introduced by Insurance Ireland in June 2023 has already begun to improve access to mortgage protection. Lion.ie details that under this code, insurers cannot consider a past cancer diagnosis when assessing mortgage protection if certain conditions are met, including complete remission and a period of time since active treatment ended. The code applies to mortgage protection for primary residences up to €500,000, and several insurers, including Aviva, Irish Life, and Zurich Life Assurance, have signed on.

What This Means for Cancer Survivors

These changes represent a significant step forward for cancer survivors seeking to secure their financial futures. Steve Dempsey, director of advocacy and communications at the Irish Cancer Society, described the government’s commitment as “a significant step forward,” noting that it will alleviate the “endless paperwork trails and hurdles” previously faced by survivors. The amended legislation is expected to be brought before Cabinet within months.

Looking Ahead

The Irish Cancer Society will continue to advocate for the swift enactment of the legislation and for ongoing reviews of the coverage threshold. These measures aim to ensure that cancer survivors have equal access to financial services and can move forward with their lives without the lingering financial consequences of a past diagnosis.