McKay secures debate on future of Dalriada Hospital

It will be the first adjournment debate of the new Assembly term and will be held on Tuesday 8th September.

Mr McKay: “The Save the Dal campaign has by no means gone away and the work of the Save the Dal work over the past number of months on what the future should be for the hospital must be commended.

“I will be seeking assurances from the Minister that he will use his influence to ensure that the Northern Trust works constructively with the community and with the new council to develop a way forward for the Dalriada hospital and ensure that there are no more sudden announcements about the future of the hospital.

“I have worked closely with the current Health Minister in developing the concept and measurement of wellbeing in society when we were both Finance Minister and Finance Chairperson respectively. He often called for more innovation in the public sector and I am glad to see that this is exactly what the Save The Dal group is considering.

“What we want to see at the Assembly is a mature debate on the future of the Dal because the proposals that are being considered can represent a win-win for both the Department and the people of Ballycastle. No-one could oppose a service that saves the Trust money whilst improving the health and wellbeing outcomes of the local population.”