Election candidate Tim Jackson has called on Minister Joe McHugh to explain why he did not attend Saturday’s Save our Services March to prevent the removal of long terms beds from Lifford, Ramelton and Stranorlar communtiy hospitals.
Describing McHugh as the “only politician in Donegal” who can reverse the closures, Jackson has called on the public to use the remainder of this election to pressure Minister McHugh into action.
“I am very concerned that if the Department of Health do not reverse this decision before the election, then our hospitals will almost certainly suffer these cuts in the next term, and eventually close entirely. Voters must put a clear proposition to Minister McHugh: either overturn the decision now, or face the consequences at the ballot box.”
“I am surprised Minister McHugh was not present on Saturday to address the meeting, so I hope he has not decided to go underground on this issue. I think it’s time for an explanation and update from Minister McHugh on his progress with the Department, at the very least. Most politicians in his position will try to dodge contentious issues close to elections, but now is not the time to jeopardise the future of our health services.”
