Dalriada decision ‘does not go far enough’: Paisley

Protestors outside Dalriada Hospital Ballycastle after the Heath Minister declared a eight week consulation period with no new addmissions to the Hopital meantime. Addressing the picket line is Cllr Cara McShane and Réamaí Mathers from the Save the Dal Campaign. INBM49-14S

In a statement he said: “The ministers statement today (Tuesday) is a stay of execution and does not go far enough.

“I would however now seek some clarification as to the make-up of the consultation and demand that it examines the hospital in full working order not in a paused position.

“It is of great importance that the Health Minister gives assurance that this is not just a compromise to buy the department some time. Staff and patients mustn’t be made to jump through hoops for the sake of it and once the hospital demonstrates that it can sustain itself and highlight how vital the service is to this community, its future must be guaranteed.

“A fair reflection of the workings of the service can only be assessed if it remains fully functional for the entirety of the consultation, therefore it is crucial that the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety do not proceed with any closures prior to its conclusion.

“Staff need to be assured that their future is not at risk for the duration of the consultation and the conclusions that it draws.

“I will be seeking a round table meeting with senior staff and the Minister as urgently as possible.”