There were angry scenes outside Mayo General Hospital this morning as Minister for Health Mary Harney arrived to formally launch the Breast Check service in the county.
More than 300 people gathered in Castlebar to protest against the planned withdrawal of cancer care services at the hospital.
They expressed particular concern about breast cancer care which they say is under immediate threat.
Hospital staff were asked not to speak to the media but surgeons have joined with local GPs in supporting the campaign.
The protest was organised by seven Mayo women who survived breast cancer and have been treated at Mayo General Hospital.
They were due to hold a private meeting this morning with the minister.
In recent months, thousands of people took to the streets of Castlebar calling on the minister to retain the regional cancer care network in the west of Ireland.
Under the national cancer care programme, University College Hospital Galway was identified as a prime treatment centre for the west.
However, Mayo protestors say they have their own centre of excellence in Castlebar and that cancer patients should not have to travel to Galway for appointments.
