Work at local hospital welcomed

He was speaking while visiting the hospital to see the foundations being dug for the new lift which is part of a £1.2 million refurbishment he secured from the Health Department. Officials from the Southern Health and Social Care Trust have thanked Mr Gardiner for his active role in securing the investment for Lurgan Hospital.

“At a time when hospital services elsewhere are being threatened by budgetary cuts, Lurgan still has its own hospital and not only that, it is a refurbished Hospital fit for purpose in the 21st century. This new lift is part of the entire re-structuring of the front and entrance area of the hospital,” said Mr Gardiner.

“I am also delighted to announce that Craigavon Area Hospital is to get five new Accident and Emergency Consultants in the same week as it was announced that Accident and Emergency Services were to close in Belfast City Hospital. This is a massive vote of confidence in Craigavon. I want to thank the Health Minister for this good news. This is a big vote of confidence in the first rate health services in this area and to the dedication and professionalism of our healthcare staff.

“I am delighted to be part of these big health service improvements for the Craigavon area. Politics must be about delivering for the people. That is what I believe in. I am also grateful for the health service officials recognising my role in this.”