McCallister Opposes Judicial Review On Downe A&E

“Win, lose or draw, the reality is this decision won’t be changed. The only thing that can be achieved is a negative impact where locals lose confidence and faith in the hospital and its services.” [caption id="attachment_6647" align="alignleft" width="500" caption="John McCallister has questioned the value of proceeding with a judicial review over A&E  services at the Downe Hospital. "][/caption] Mr McCallister said he believes everyone should remain focused on building up confidence and morale at Downe Hospital. “We have new services available such as a Cataract Clinic, Cardiac Screening, Bowel Screening and a Sexual Health Clinic. “I firmly believe that we need to draw a line under the past and move forward with confidence and trust. We need to get behind the staff and move onwards and upwards. Just last week there were six babies born at Downpatrick’s Maternity Unit and that is immensely encouraging. “The new arrangements with the GP led A&E seem to have bedded down remarkably well. And more importantly the sheer fact that all talk about Downe’s A&E has gone completely off the radar is hugely encouraging. We should not underestimate the importance of this. Focus has now shifted to services at Belfast City Hospital and Lagan Valley. I am confident that what we have at Downe could be used as a model and replicated in other parts of Northern Ireland.” Mr McCallister added, “I urge those who want this Judicial Review to think seriously about the long-term damage this could do the Downe Hospital.” Local UUP Councillor Dessie Patterson also criticised news of the Judicial Review. He said, “I think this move is a complete waste of time. At our last Health Committee Meeting we met with the managers of the hospital who presented a very positive report. The GP led A&E is running well and it is widely agreed that Downe Hospital could be used an a model and rolled out across the province. “I think the Downe Hospital has a future but only if these campaigners leave it alone. It is time to embrace what we have and move on for the sake of everyone in the area.”]]>