Sinn Féin spokesperson for Health Pat Sheehan has called on the Belfast Trust to publish its plan to address the staffing crisis within Muckamore Abbey Hospital.

This follows news that the Belfast Trust has spent £4m on agency staff to cover the staffing vacancies within Muckamore Abbey Hospital.

Pat Sheehan said:

“The Belfast Trust has been in crisis mode with regard to Muckamore Abbey Hospital following the revelations of alleged instances of abuse last year.

“A considerable number of staff in Muckamore have been suspended and a police investigation is currently underway.

“Staff face ongoing and increasing pressures within Muckamore Abbey to deliver safe and effective care to those still in the hospital.

“The use of agency staff has been necessary in the immediate term but it is not a long-term solution.

“Every effort must be made to ensure continuity of safe and quality health care for patients in Muckamore Abbey Hospital.

“Sinn Féin calls on the Belfast Trust to detail its plans to stabilise the situation and to be open with patients and the public as to how it will meet the needs of those still in the hospital.” CRÍOCH/ENDS