Public meeting on A&E provision in Ballymena

The hearing, which will take place in September 2014, will give members of the public, healthcare staff and other interested parties the opportunity to share their experiences of Antrim Area Hospital, Mid-Ulster Hospital and other emergency departments across Northern Ireland.

The Commission encourages patients, family members, health care staff and representatives in the sector to calling their Freephone line (0800 028 6066) or via the NIHRC website (nihrc.org/inquiry).

Phonelines are open Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm until the 20th June. Evidence can also be submitted on our website until 30th June. Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearing to observe. The venue and date will be published on the NIHRC website in the coming weeks.

NIHRC Interim Chair, John Corey said: “The main focus of the inquiry is the participation of the public. We want to hear from anyone who has recently experienced emergency healthcare, and in particular from those who have sought care from an Accident and Emergency Unit. We also want to hear from the staff who provide this vital service.

“The inquiry will consider the total experience of emergency health care from a human rights perspective. This includes the individual’s rights to respect for dignity, access to information, and their involvement in decision-making.The Commission will publish its final report and recommendations to the Northern Ireland Executive in April 2015.”