Lenihan To Carry On Despite Cancer Diagnosis

Finance Minister Brian Lenihan T.D., has announced that he will undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy after doctors discoveredcancerous tissue that blocked the entrance to his pancreas.

In a statement released on Monday, Mr Lenihan said he was "feeling fit and well" and, after discussions with Taoiseach Brian Cowen and his doctors, "it [was his] intention to continue to serve as Minister for Finance."

During an interview with RTE Mr Lenihan said the growth could not be operated on as it was near an important blood vessel and that his doctors said that treatment could take up to six months to complete.

He also said that he had discussed the matter with colleagues and medical advisers and felt he would be able to "fulfil the essential functions" of his office.

In the interview with RTE Mr Lenihan said that the rest of his body was healthy and that no secondary growths had been found.

"It's a growth I intend to defeat, or it will defeat me," he said.

Lenihan was subjected to medical tests during the week before Christmas and cancerous tissue was found in a blockage at the entrance to his pancreas.

He added that a stent was inserted and his pancreas is now functioning normally.

"My medical advice is that chemotherapeutic and radio therapeutic treatment are required. I will begin the treatment later this week," the statement continued.

"I will supervise the work of my department and meet delegations relevant to this work. I will prepare for and attend government meetings.

"I will continue to represent the constituency of Dublin West to the best of my abilities.

"I am well aware of the importance of the office I hold. My doctors have advised that I am fit to continue to fulfil my duties. If that position were to change in the course of my treatment, I would be the first to recognise it.

"At all times, I will act in the best interests of the country and in accordance with any medical advice received. I do not intend to issue any further statements about this matter."

He also thanked those who had sent him messages of support.