‘I am working to ensure the best services for Lisburn’ says Minister

It is not difficult to see that many of these are entirely party politically motivated. The bottom line is that we must ensure the safest most effective services at Lagan Valley Hospital. The low number of junior doctors who had agreed to work at the Accident and Emergency department meant that in the short-term, a 24-hour service was unfortunately just not realistic.

I have sought to ensure the maximum opening hours with the low number of staff available and am re-assured that well over 70% of those who previously attended will still be treated before 8pm. The search for extra junior doctors is still continuing and the Trust has confirmed that it considers this reduction in hours as only a temporary measure.

An issue as serious as this should not be dragged in to petty party politics. I could if I wanted to make the point that the number of doctors trained were the responsibility of the previous ministers for DHSSPS and DEL, but that is not what I am interested in.

My focus is on finding practical solutions to the people of Lagan Valley. I will work alongside clinicians, and the public can be certain that I will not compromise patient safety as I work to ensure the very best possible facilities and services for the people of Lisburn and the surrounding area.

Edwin Poots MLA