Lagan Valley toget additionalambulance cover

Local MLA, Jonathan Craig , who had previously expressed concern about the level of cover, said he welcomed the fulfilment of the Minister’s commitment to him over additional ambulance cover in the area.

He said: “It has been confirmed to personnel that the second rapid response vehicle based at the Lagan Valley hospital will now be manned and that an additional ambulance will be covering on the night shift as well.

“This is welcome news as there may be more journeys from Belfast because of the obstetrics cover now needed in maternity at the Lagan Valley.”

He continued: “It is good to see that the Minister kept his word that he gave to me in written response to an adjournment debate on the issue of this cover in the Lagan Valley.

“This will not only benefit the hospital but benefit the people of Lagan Valley in that response time from the emergency services will be reduced and consequently, lives will be saved.”

However Mr Craig said he still has some concerns regarding what he describes as a short term fix.

He said: “No permanent cover has been allocated to these vehicles in question and overtime is in place. This is hardly an ideal situation but the Minister must be commended for keeping to his word.”