Sinn Féin MLA Emma Rogan has called on the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to provide urgent clarity to redeployed health workers originally based in the Downe Hospital.
The South Down MLA said:
“The community of South Down were left dismayed last week by the decision of the Health Minister and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to bin plans to reopen the Downe A&E, instead opting for an Urgent Care Centre operating on an appointment only basis.
“This decision was entirely unacceptable and concerns were further compounded by the absence of consultation with health workers and the local community.
“During the COVID19 pandemic, available staff and equipment were requisitioned from the Downe for use in other parts of the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust area.
“The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust must urgently consult with these staff and implement the previous plans to reopen the Downe A&E.”
