The Southern Trust issued a statement the day before Saturday’s Daisy Hill Rally, organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. In it they welcomed the show of support for Daisy Hill Hospital and emphasised again that all is being done to retain services.
A spokesperson said the Trust is also “absolutely committed” to the retention of services at Daisy HIll and gave the recent £8million investment in a new paediatric centre on the 6th floor of the hospital as an example of its commitment.
“We have listened to, and understand, the community’s concerns about the Emergency Department and we are doing everything possible to keep a safe, sustainable 24/7 Emergency Service in Daisy Hill Hospital,” continued the statement, adding that a Daisy Hill Hospital Pathfinder Group has been set up tasked to produce an acute and emergency care implementation plan by September 2017.
“In the interim period action is underway to stabilise the rota in the ED, and detailed discussions are continuing with colleagues in other Trusts – these are progressing positively.
“The Trust senior team will be meeting with party representatives from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council early next week to discuss their concerns, and we look forward to working closely with the council in future.”