Sister Nicola McGlinchey, the island’s nurse met the Minister as he arrived on Rathlin.
The Minister also met representatives of the Rathlin Development Community Association and local politicians.
The Minister said: “My visit to Rathlin Island today has been extremely informative and worthwhile. It has allowed me to hear about the existing healthcare provision to the island, including the work of the island nurse, and to speak to residents and local representatives regarding a number of issues about healthcare provision.
“I want to pay tribute to Nurse McGlinchey who is a dedicated member of the local healthcare team. She provides an essential service and is greatly valued by the island community.
“I am anxious that my Department should continue to work with residents, political representatives and healthcare professionals in the Board and Trust to ensure that healthcare services provided for the island meet the needs of the population both now and in the future.”
Notes to Editors:
- Rathlin Island lies five miles off the coast of County Antrim and 13 miles from the Mull of Kintyre.
- Rathlin Island has a resident population of 75 people, however this can increase over the summer period with summer residents, campers and visitors to the island.
- A nurse is resident on the island from Monday to Friday. Nursing services at weekends are provided by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust core nursing teams.
- Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0579, or out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number on 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
