Sinn Fein MLA Maeve McLaughlin
SINN Féin MLA and health committee chair Maeve McLaughlin has welcomed this week’s increase in funding for health as part of the 2016/17 budget.
She called on DUP Health Minister Simon Hamilton to spend the money on areas badly in need of extra cash.
Ms McLaughlin said: “The one per cent increase announced in the health budget as part of the 2016/’17 budget is welcome.
“Everyone is aware of the pressures on the health service budget and this funding boost will help address those issues.
“While today’s announcement is undoubtedly welcome, how this increase in funds is managed will be crucial.
“In the past we have been critical of how the health department’s budget has been allocated and spent.
“It is now up to the health minister to ensure this additional money is spent in the best possible way so it is targeted at addressing health inequalities and improving the service for everyone.”
