Richard Boyd Barrett on his cancer treatment: ‘It is going to be very difficult to eat. That is what worries me most’ – The Irish Times

Richard Boyd Barrett's Cancer Diagnosis and Political Hiatus

Richard Boyd Barrett, a 57-year-old Irish politician, has announced he is temporarily stepping away from politics to focus on treating his throat cancer. He discovered a swelling during the November general election campaign and received a diagnosis after a biopsy. The cancer has spread to lymph nodes but is considered relatively early-stage. His treatment plan includes surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Concerns and Treatment

Barrett's primary concern is the impact of treatment on his ability to eat, fearing difficulties with swallowing and taste. He expects seven weeks of treatment, followed by an unspecified recovery period before he can return to politics.

Political Views and Regrets

He expresses regret at having to step back from pressing political issues, particularly the situation in Gaza, the Trump presidency, Irish neutrality, and the housing crisis. He criticizes global leaders for prioritizing military spending over social issues and expresses hope for collective resistance to what he calls the 'monstrous logic' of prioritizing profits over human life.

Future Plans

He mentions that younger colleagues are stepping up to take on his responsibilities. He hopes to return to politics once he recovers but isn't sure when.

• Focus on recovery from cancer treatment.
• Temporary hiatus from political activity.
• Concern about the effects of treatment on eating.
• Regret at being unable to engage with pressing political issues like the Gaza conflict, Irish neutrality, and the housing crisis.
• Party colleague Brid Smith will manage his constituency office in his absence.