Fianna Fail questions future of maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital
Galway Bay fm newsroom - The HSE says a preliminary report into existing models of maternity services across the West and North West does not recommend the closure of any unit.
It follows concerns raised by Fianna Fail today over the future of maternity services across the region, including at Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe.
Galway East TD Colm Keaveney says a leaked report reveals that services at some units could be downgraded to a midwife-led system which would see a rationalisation of hospital services into UHG and Letterkenny General Hospital.
The HSE West says the review is not yet complete and the preliminary report does not recommend the closure of any maternity unit.
It adds that speculation at this early stage in the process is unhelpful and potentially upsetting for patients and staff.
Deputy Colm Keaveny has called on the Health Minister to provide some much needed clarity on the feared plans.