FF’s Butler works with other Opposition TDs to agree motion on 24/7 Cardiac Care in Waterford

Fianna Fáil Waterford TD Mary Butler has worked with fellow Waterford opposition TD David Cullinane to secure broad support in Dáil Éireann for a motion calling for the provision of 24/7 Cardiac Care at University Hospital Waterford.

Fianna Fáil TD, Mary Butler and Sinn Féin TD, David Cullinane have secured the agreement of the health spokespeople from the Labour Party, the Green Party, the Social Democrats, the Rural Independent Group and Independents for Change for a wide ranging private members business motion on the need for a second catherisation lab at the hospital.

In addition to a Private Members’ motion, a request for a Private Notice Question to the Minister for Health, Simon Harris to answer for the Government’s failure to deliver 24/7 Cardiac Care and the risk to life for people in the South East that this failure brings.

Deputy Butler commented “This issue is without question one of the most serious facing the people of Waterford and the South East. There is now clear public and clinical support for 24/7 Cardiac Care at UHW and the Minister for Health must stop fudging on this issue and commit to its delivery.

“The Herrity Report was flawed in so many ways, and was used by the Government as a cover for not delivering on its promise to Minister Halligan.

“A second cath lab was promised as far back as 2012/2013, and the current government, and the one that preceded it, failed to deliver it. Fianna Fáil is absolutely clear on its commitment to deliver 24/7 Cardiac Care and a second cath lab when next elected to Government.

“This issue is much bigger than party politics and it is incumbent on representatives from across the political spectrum in this region to work together in the interests of the people”