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Public meeting called in relation to Portlaoise Hospital

An emergency public meeting has been called in relation to the proposed downgrading of services at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise has been called for this Wednesday, October 25.

The meeting has been called in response to the news of proposals to downgrade services at the hospital, particularly Accident and Emergency.

The Hospital Action Committee and concerned members of the public and elected representatives have called the meeting which will take place at 8pm in St Mary’s Hall in Portlaoise.

Monday’s meeting of Laois County Council heard arguments from councillors that if the proposals are accepted, Fianna Fail should withdraw its support for the government.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley raised the issue at the meeting, following details of the report which were revealed by Deputy Brian Stanley over the weekend.

She proposed they seek a meeting with Minister for Health Simon Harris and local Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan as soon as possible.

Cllr Jerry Lodge said Fianna Fail should withdraw its support for the government, if it proceeds with the recommendations in the report.

He said ministerial pressure had got Stepaside Garda Station reopened and they must take similar steps to keep the hospital services in place.

Elsewhere, Sinn Fein are also holding a meeting on Thursday, November 9, in the Portlaoise Parish Centre, which will be attended by Louise O’Reilly, the Sinn Fein spokesperson on Health and Joe Hoolan of the Irish Nurse and Midwives Organisation.

SEE ALSO – Councillors say Portlaoise Hospital downgrade should collapse the government