A group of hospital consultants and community healthcare leaders in Donegal are calling on election candidates to make concrete commitments for change in the north west.
The group is seeking healthcare reform through a five-point pledge addressing critical gaps in funding and services in the county.
“Donegal residents have long faced extended wait times, overcrowded facilities and insufficient resources at Letterkenny University Hospital, one of Ireland’s busiest hospitals. The 5-Point Pledge is a commitment for candidates to prioritise five specific actions if elected,” campaigners said.
The five actions are:
1. Equitable Funding – Secure fair funding for LUH based on population and healthcare needs.
2. Implementation of Model 3 Recommendations – Act on recommendations to strengthen LUH’s services and capacity.
3. Surgical Hub for Donegal – Establish a local surgical hub, reducing the need for patients to travel outside Donegal for essential care.
4. Modernisation of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) – Upgrade LUH’s ICU to support safe, effective patient care.
5. Minor Injuries Unit for Donegal – Develop a Minor Injuries Unit to relieve pressure on the Emergency Department.
The campaign is spearheaded by a group including four consultants from Letterkenny University Hospital: Dr. Áine Keating, Mr. Michael Sugrue, Dr. Louise Moran, and Dr. Paul O’Connor, as well as several Donegal GPs.
“This election is a critical moment for Donegal,” said Dr. Áine Keating, Consultant and campaign spokesperson. “Our communities need concrete commitments, not vague promises. We are asking each candidate to sign this pledge as a commitment to the people of Donegal and to act on it if elected.”
They are also calling on the public to sign a declaration calling on candidates to take action.
“Through partnerships with local businesses, community groups, and media, the campaign aims to keep healthcare reform at the forefront of the election discussion,” they said.
The 5-Point Pledge underscores the severe need for investment in Donegal’s healthcare services and a clear plan to address issues that have affected LUH for over two decades. Election candidates are urged to publicly endorse the pledge, signalling their commitment to supporting essential reforms.”
For more information on the pledge or to sign the public declaration, visit www.dcra.ie.
