Sinn Féin mental health spokesperson, Órlaithí Flynn MLA, has welcomed the Minister of Health’s indication that the development of a mother and baby mental health unit in Belfast will commence in this financial year.

Speaking after this week’s Health Committee meeting where Mike Nesbitt made the announcement, the West Belfast MLA said:

“I am delighted the Minister has said he is keen to see the mother and baby mental health unit developed. The site has been identified at the City Hospital in Belfast, and will be the first of its kind on the island.

“Sinn Féin has long-called for this project to be delivered to better support those mothers experiencing postpartum mental health issues, and ensure they are not separated from their newborn child.

“This represents a positive step towards better supporting women and ensuring they have access to first-class, modern health services.

“I look forward to hearing further details around this project as it develops and will continue work with the Health Minister and the other parties on this.”