Trust cancels appointments and NMDDC closes facilities ahead of storm

The safety of all staff and service users across hospital and community services is a Trust priority.

All elective surgery, including red flag and urgent, has also been cancelled.

A spokesperson for the Trust said that the warning would mean major disruption to services.

“All outpatient appointments are cancelled and all elective surgery, including red flag and urgent, is cancelled,” they said.

“Our community staff will continue to prioritise our most vulnerable service users but we ask for the support of family and carers where possible.

“Given the advisory not to travel, only come to our Emergency Departments if you have serious symptoms that need hospital care. Our Phone First service will not be operating tomorrow, phone 999 if the patient is acutely unwell.”

The Trust spokesperson added that the safety of patients and service users “remains our utmost concern” and they appealed for public support in ensuring that they are able to care for those who need them most.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has confirmed that all of its facilities will be closed throughout Friday.

They added: "Council facilities will re-open as normal on Saturday 25 January 2025 subject to safety checks and any necessary repairs being completed.

“There may be some delays in the re-opening of the district’s four Forest/Country Parks (Castlewellan, Delamont, Kilbroney and Slieve Gullion), Warrenpoint Park and Community Trails, Play Parks and Open Spaces to facilitate site inspections and undertake any necessary works.

“This will also apply to all associated facilities (cafes, forest drives, mountain bike trails etc) as it may not be safe to enter these outdoor facilities over the weekend. We will endeavour to reinstate public access as soon as possible.

“The Council’s Emergency Management Team is continuing to monitor the situation and is working closely with statutory agencies and partners to ensure the public's safety.

“Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from Met Office, for more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/2zc5xpxs

“Keep an eye on our social media channels for further updates on our services impacted by the adverse weather situation.”

Meanwhile, Newry Cathedral Parish has said that all parish buildings, including churches, will be closed for the duration of the red weather warning.

“It is hoped that the evening Mass at St. Brigid’s church may go ahead as usual, but this will be dependent on circumstances.”