During his visit to the Western Health and Social Care Trust, the Minister visited two newly refurbished theatres at Erne Hospital, where he had the opportunity to see at first hand the excellent theatres, associated anaesthetic side rooms, and surgical preparation rooms, representing an investment of £800,000.
He also paid a visit to the site of the new £267million South West Acute Hospital at Wolf Lough, where enabling works have recently been completed.
Mr McGimpsey said: “Securing high quality, state-of-the-art health facilities for the people across the south west is a top priority for me and my Department. The progress that is being made on the new acute hospital site just outside Enniskillen is very encouraging. Enabling works are now complete and we are moving towards a state of readiness for construction of the new acute hospital.
“This is a very exciting time for the people of the south west. The considerable and essential investment in the new acute hospital in Enniskillen and the new enhanced local hospital in Omagh, will provide the whole community with modern healthcare facilities, fit for the 21st century.”
Commenting on the newly refurbished theatres at the Erne Hospital, the Minister continued: “This £800,000 investment at the Erne Hospital is an important step in meeting interim service needs in the area whilst awaiting construction of the new acute hospital. The new theatres will mean the Western Trust will be able to ensure that the highest clinical standards are maintained.
“I would like to commend the Western Trust and its staff at both the Erne and Tyrone County Hospitals for their efforts in ensuring that these newly refurbished theatres are up and running in only eight months and for ensuring that the highest standard of care was delivered during the refurbishment.”
Welcoming the Minister to Enniskillen, Chair of the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Mr Gerard Guckian said: “I am delighted that the Minister has taken the time to visit the Western Trust at this exciting time. We very much welcome his interest and support in improving hospital services in the west. Site preparations on the new acute hospital have advanced well, with major steps in road infrastructure, electricity and water supplies progressing.
“I am also pleased that the Minister was able to see our newly refurbished theatres at first hand and I would like to join with him in thanking staff throughout the Erne and Tyrone County hospitals for their commitment and dedication during the completion of this project.”
Notes to Editors:
- The new acute hospital site has now been prepared for the new roundabout base, completed earthworks, constructed an access road, and diverted the electricity cables underground. In addition, essential utility services such as water, electricity and telecommunications are effectively in place and ready for the new hospital.
- Press enquiries to Jenny Magill at the DHSSPS on 028 9052 0575 or 07833 668748. Out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
