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Dáire Hughes MP for Newry and Armagh has reiterated the call on the Southern Trust, the Health Minister and the Department of Health to find and implement solutions to the crisis at Daisy Hill maternity. Hughes addressed the Southern Trust’s board meeting after the Trust approved the temporary relocation of the service.
Speaking after addressing the meeting, the Newry and Armagh MP said: “Today once again I emphasised heavily how unacceptable the decision is to suspend maternity services at Daisy Hill.”
“This is a sad day for Daisy Hill and wider healthcare provision. More importantly, this decision has placed intolerable levels of stress and anxiety on expectant mothers and their families. Sinn Féin promises to keep the pressure on the Trust, the Minister and the Department of Health to reinstate maternity services at Daisy Hill. Today is not the end.”
Hughes also raised concerns about the effect on other services.
“This decision will also have a knock on effect as Craigavon will quickly struggle to cope. Just as we approach peak winter pressure, this decision will further place stress on other hospital services and ambulance resources.”
The MP was also critical of the Trust, the Department of Health and the Health Minister.
“The Trust, the Department of Health and the Health Minister need to have a hard look at themselves in respect of the quality of care being provided to this community. They have failed mothers and babies here. They need to stabilise services at Daisy Hill and invest in its future.”
Hughes said contact has been ongoing with those affected by the situation. “I have been continuously speaking to expectant mothers, stakeholders, Daisy Hill staff and their union representatives. Their ongoing support has been inspiring and spurs us on to continue our fight.”
Looking ahead, Hughes said: “We will work hard, with others, to ensure any temporary suspension of services is indeed temporary, and that sustainable, safe maternity services return to Daisy Hill as soon as possible.”
