Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Protesters against the Roscommon Hospital cuts arrive in Dublin Sam Boal/Photocall Ireland
Roscommon

Enda Kenny made election pledge to protect Roscommon A&E

The Taoiseach promised to “defend” the hospital’s emergency ward, which will be closed tomorrow.

TAOISEACH ENDA KENNY made a pre-election promise to “protect and defend” the A&E unit that will be shut down tomorrow, it has emerged.

In a speech made in Roscommon town on February 8, Kenny called on listeners to vote for local Fine Gael TDs Frank Feighan and Denis Naughten, a recording made by the Sunday Business Post (print edition) shows. He added “You know in the accident and emergency [...] what can be done in your own local hospital here.

“We will protect and defend that [...] We are committed to maintaining the services at Roscommon General Hospital.”

A spokesman for the Taoiseach said “any commitments” were made before a HIQA report which raised safety fears.

The paper also reports that Minister for Health Dr James Reilly pushed for the downgraded facility at the hospital to be labelled an “urgent care centre”, rather than the HSE’s preferred “minor injury unit”. The downgrading of services has sparked furious protests from local resdents.

Read Niamh Connolly and Susan Mitchell’s full report in the print edition of the Sunday Business Post >

Read more: Government wins Roscommon Hospital vote amid Dáil protests >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
10
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.