Trust hope to open new unit by next April

Mr McGoran gave assurances this week that the Trust was doing everything they can to open the new unit, which will allow 24 hour access to the Lagan Valley Hospital, as soon as possible.

Mr McGoran also said he was deeply disappointed that the unit, which will be adjacent to the Accident and Emergency Department, was not able to open on time due to severe budget cuts.

“I would like to express my disappointment at the decision we had to take,” said Mr McGoran. “Disappointment for the people of Lisburn, our staff and the hospital.

“It felt horrible but we couldn’t commit additional expenditure on the one hand when having to make such significant savings.

“April 1 is a new financial year and that is the date we are working towards for commencing the Minor Injuries Unit.

“I don’t know what the next financial year holds for us but we are really keen to open the unit and restore seven day a week access to the hospital.

“I can’t give any cast iron guarantees but we are absolutely committed to the Minor Injuries Unit for the Lagan Valley and we are working towards this service being in place in April next year.”

Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson, who met with Mr Doran and the Trust Chief Executive Hugh McCaughey about the delay to the opening of the unit, said: “We have been reassured by the ‘absolute commitment’ given that the Trust are aiming to open the Unit in April next year.

“We were told by the Trust that this Unit is an integral part of the Lagan Valley hospital for the future and combined with the existing Casualty Unit and the GP Out of Hours Service will result in the restoration of 24/7 cover at the Lagan Valley.

“The local community needs to have this service and we are determined to see it delivered.”