Minister of Health must set out plan for the future of Daisy Hill - Finnegan

The Slieve Gullion councillor spoke on the matter at the latest full council meeting.

Cllr Finnegan said: “The decision to permanently remove emergency surgery from Daisy Hill Hospital has been deeply disappointing and has undoubtedly caused real concerns for staff and particularly patients across the district, particularly in rural areas.

“I spoke on this pressing issue at our latest council meeting, stating that we need a clear plan from the Health Minister for the future of the hospital.

“Indeed, the feeling that the Trust didn’t have a clear plan for the future of the Hospital was a factor in the exit of a number of consultants last year, resulting in a near collapse of all services.

“While the trust has made some progress in stabilising services at the hospital, what we need is a clear outline from the Health Minister to confirm their plans to deliver for Daisy Hill and to ensure all people across Newry, Mourne and Down will have equal access to services in the long term.”