Daisy Hill’s general hospital designation ‘a downgrade’

​The Department of Health has come under sharp criticism for its failure to schedule a public meeting in Newry as part of an ongoing consultation into hospital reconfiguration.

The consultation ‘Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcome’ has recommended designating Daisy Hill as a General Hospital, “providing defined secondary care services…geared to a specific, more isolated geographical location.”

Cllr Feehan tabled a motion calling on the council to register “its concern at the proposed designation of Daisy Hill Hospital as a General Hospital”.

He said: “It is unacceptable that Newry has been excluded from a consultation that directly impacts on our city’s hospital, particularly when that consultation effectively recommends downgrading Daisy Hill to a general hospital.

“People in the Newry area have shown a solid commitment to Daisy Hill and enthusiasm for engaging on the future of our health service, which is why I think this move shows very poor form from the Department of Health.

“Very simply, I am calling on the Department of Health to schedule a public meeting in Newry and treat local people with the level of respect they deserve. We should have the chance to have our say on the future of our hospital."

SDLP Councillor Doire Finn added: "I am really pleased to support Councillor Feehan's motion, residents across the city know how important Daisy Hill is and I hope that we will see a public meeting so that people can have their say."