Trust commitment to plan for the future of Daisy Hill is 'welcome' - Brady

The Newry and Armagh MP said: “Today the Southern Trust committed to working with staff in Daisy Hill to develop a five-year plan for the future of the hospital. 

“It’s important that the Trust recognises the importance of a clear plan for the hospital's future in recruiting and retaining staff.

“They must now demonstrate their commitment to securing the long-term future of Daisy Hill in real actions, not just words.

“We were also also updated on the hospital stabilisation plan, which includes the recruitment of a number of locum consultants to replace those lost previously.

“While this will help address challenges in the short term, it’s important that the Trust moves quickly to put more permanent solutions in place ahead of the expected winter pressures.

"It was deeply disappointing to learn of the decision to remove emergency general surgery from Daisy Hill.

“This is deeply concerning for the community and the Southern Trust need to be very clear about the steps they are taking to ensure the ongoing and safe delivery of existing services at Daisy Hill.

“I will join the Daisy Hill future group in meeting the new Expert Panel tomorrow for a further update on issues concerning Daisy Hill Hospital and the real steps being taken to secure the future of the hospital. 

"The pressures on our health service and health workers are unprecedented and follows 13 years of savage Tory cuts to public services. 

“We need all parties working together around the Executive table to tackle the issues in our health service and deliver the best services for patients.”