FUTURE OF GYNAECOLOGICAL THEATRE AT UHG RAISED IN DAIL

Date Published: 14-Mar-2012

The future of services at the gynaecological theatre at UHG has been raised in the Dail this evening [Mar 14].

Fianna Fail Health Spokesperson Billy Kelleher says staff shortages are threatening services there and impacting on elective surgery.

He says only emergencies and c-sections are being catered for at present at the theatre and fears are mounting that elective surgery is to be suspended for five weeks.

In a statement to Galway Bay fm news, the HSE says the theatre has not been closed and staff are working very hard to ensure continuity of service.

However, the HSE highlights that in recent weeks, due to staff shortages, it has not been possible to run the theatre to full capacity.

Speaking in the Dail this evening, Billy Kelleher said a lack of forward planning has led to the current issues.

Junior Health Minister Kathleen Lynch said agency staff have been recruited to cover staff shortages.