The Trust made a number of recommendations at its Board meeting today around proposals for mental health provision and services for older people.
The Minister said: "The Belfast Trust Board has made a number of recommendations on how it plans to achieve the challenging 3% efficiency savings over the next three years. I am aware of the high level of public concern in relation to all Trusts proposals. I have always stated that, where there is no consensus, final decisions will be taken by me.
"I am encouraged by the Trust's decision to change a number of its recommendations in light of the responses to its consultation. This clearly shows that the consultation process works and the voices of the public are being listened to.
"I can assure people that if services are changing, that change will be for the better. No changes will take place until alternative facilities or alternative services are ready for use."
Michael McGimpsey concluded: "The Trust proposals will now come to me for consideration and I will make my decisions quickly."
Notes to Editors:
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