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Enniskillen, Northern Ireland – A wave of public concern and protest has led Health Minister Robin Swann to call for an immediate pause in the Western Health and Social Care Trust’s consultation regarding the potential permanent removal of emergency general surgery services from the South West Acute Hospital (SWAH) in Enniskillen. The decision, announced earlier today, marks a significant victory for local campaigners who have been tirelessly advocating for the preservation of vital healthcare services in the region.

The controversial consultation, which has been ongoing for several weeks, proposed the cessation of emergency general surgery at SWAH, citing unsustainable workforce challenges and a need to consolidate surgical services at other hospitals within the Western Trust area. This proposal has sparked widespread anger and anxiety amongst residents of County Fermanagh and surrounding areas, who fear that the loss of this service would severely impact access to timely and life-saving treatment.

Minister Swann’s intervention comes after sustained pressure from local MPs, Assembly members, community groups, and a massive public demonstration held in Enniskillen last weekend. In a statement released this morning, the Minister acknowledged the depth of feeling within the community and expressed his commitment to ensuring that the voices of patients and their families are heard.

“I understand the deep anxieties and frustrations felt by the people of Fermanagh and surrounding communities,” Minister Swann stated. “The Western Trust’s consultation has understandably caused significant distress. Therefore, I have written to the Trust Chair requesting an immediate pause to the consultation process. This will allow for a period of reflection and a proper assessment of alternative solutions that can address the workforce challenges while safeguarding essential surgical services for our community.”

The pause will provide an opportunity for the Trust to explore all available options, including recruitment strategies, workforce development initiatives, and potential partnerships with other healthcare providers. It also allows for further engagement with the public and stakeholders to ensure that any future decisions are made with full transparency and accountability.

What's Next?

• Immediate Pause: The consultation is now on hold.
• Trust Review: The Western Trust will be tasked with exploring alternative solutions.
• Further Engagement: Opportunities for public input will be revisited.

Local representatives have welcomed the Minister’s decision, but emphasize that this is only a temporary reprieve. They are urging the Trust and the Department of Health to work collaboratively to develop a sustainable long-term plan that ensures the continued provision of high-quality surgical services at SWAH.

The future of emergency general surgery at SWAH remains uncertain, but Minister Swann’s intervention has provided a glimmer of hope for the community and a renewed opportunity to advocate for the healthcare services they deserve. The focus now shifts to finding viable solutions that can address the underlying challenges while protecting the well-being of patients and the sustainability of the local healthcare system.