Michael McGimpsey visited the island today to find out about current healthcare services on Rathlin.
Speaking after his meeting, the Minister said: “I have met with the island’s nurse, Sister Nicola McGlinchey, and members of Rathlin Development Community Association as well as local political representatives, and listened to their concerns about the current healthcare provision.
“I have asked for 24/7 nursing cover so that the islanders have a healthcare service the whole week through.
“Illness can occur at any time. Rathlin’s full time population need nursing cover for those unpredictable times, and when the population grows over the summer months nursing cover is all the more necessary.
“I have instructed the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Northern Board to take this forward as a matter of urgency.”
Notes to Editors:
- There are seventy five permanent residents on Rathlin Island.
- A District Nursing Sister lives on the island from Monday to Friday and provides cover from 9 – 5 each weekday. Weekend services are provided by the Northern Trust.
- During his visit to Rathlin, the Minister met Sister McGlinchey, members of the Rathlin Development Community Association and Assembly members the Rev Dr Robert Coulter, Declan O’Loan, as well as Cllr Neil Armstrong, Cllr William Graham and Cllr Jim Simpson.
- Media enquiries to DHSSPS Press Office 02890520579 or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440.
