Wells must apologise for callous behaviour of Health officials: McKay

He described the move as cynical and underhand as it was carried out as staff, patients and relatives were being told by the Health Minister that he was considering their pleas to save the hospital.

Mr McKay said: “This has to rank as one of the most cynical and underhand moves I have ever seen from the Northern Trust.

“It is quite clear that they are operating with the support of the Minister who has refused to make an intervention in this case.

“There is a real sense of anger in this town at how the community are being treated by the Northern Trust and the Health Minister.

“The minister must make an immediate apology to the people of Ballycastle and the patients of Dalriada for this callous move.

“He should send instructions to the Northern Trust immediately to cease moves to close the hospital until we see a full and proper consultation.”