Students to the fore in support of Downe

Students to the fore in support of Downe

19 March 2014

A KEY feature of the campaign which has been launched to secure the reopening of 24-hour A&E services at the Downe Hospital is the support of young people.

Last week’s public meeting in Ballynahinch was addressed by students from the Assumption Grammar, Ballynahinch High School and St. Colman’s High and Sixth Form College.

Assumption student, Lucy Connor, recalled how the Downe Hospital had saved her young sister’s life following an accident on  at a local leisure centre. She said her mum, who suffers from a chronic asthmatic condition, has used the Downpatrick hospital “well over 100 times.”

Lucy added: “I live in the country and the reality is that lives will be lost as a result of the weekend closure of the Downe’s emergency department.”

Ballynahinch High School’s Chloe Hunter said it was important A&E services at the Downe are available at weekends. She said every child has the right to the best possible health care.

She added: “I would ask Health Minister Edwin Poots why he has decided to take this right away from the children of Ballynahinch.

St. Colman’s student, Tamara O’Hare, who is a keen amateur boxer, said the Downe Hospital’s emergency department should be open 24-hours every day.

“There are lots of sports events held in our district at the weekend. What happens if players are seriously injured? We need a 24-hour A&E service in our area and a health service which represents the 21st century,” she added.