Campaign boost as council throws weight behind petition

The petition, which is now available at Council facilities and council website (www.lisburncity.gov.uk) as well as through the Ulster Star, is part of a cross party campaign supporting local services for local people at the hospital.

A cross party delegation has already met with the Health Minister, Edwin Poots and meetings with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust are continuing to try and find a solution to the staff shortages being experienced right across the UK.

The Mayor, Councillor Brian Heading, said the support for the Lagan Valley Hospital was unanimous and that it was vital that the community showed its support for the future of the local hospital.

“The Lagan Valley Hospital belongs to each and every one of us and as a community we need to show our support. Any one of us may need to use the A&E at some time or another as will our families, friends and neighbours. There are clearly difficulties within the system at the minute and we acknowledge that those involved are working hard to find a solution.

“As a Community we need to ensure that the Lagan Valley Hospital remains high on the agenda and the reinstatement of services at the hospital forms part of any agreed solution.”

Petitions will be available at all Council facilities and online at www.lisburncity.gov.uk

Chairman of the Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Stephen Martin said: “Reduction in opening hours at the Accident and Emergency Department will have a profound effect not only for the people of Lisburn who no longer have access to local emergency provision during the night but also to people outside the area who already experience unacceptably long waiting times at neighbouring hospitals.

“I urge everybody to show their support for the future of the Lagan Valley Hospital by signing this Petition.”