Altnagelvin Hospital
Despite the recent investment in Altnagelvin, Mr Durkan argued the A&E infrastructure at the hospital was not fit for purpose.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I acknowledge there has been recent investment in Altnagelvin Hospital, however it’s glaringly clear that issues remain with the capacity of its Emergency Department.
“Put bluntly, it is not fit for purpose in this day and age.
“There is not sufficient space to deal with the volume of patients or an adequate layout to deal with the vulnerability of patients.
“This is making life even more difficult for the great staff team there who already overstretched and under pressure after an incredibly challenging few years.
“I recognise the financial pressures facing the Department of Health but that doesn’t and shouldn’t detract from the reality of the problems facing staff and patients at the A&E Department.
“The Covid pandemic has served to exacerbate capacity issues and my fear is that it is actually a deterrent for people, especially the elderly, attending hospital.
“Finding the resource to address this problem is essential to ensure Emergency Department is delivering for patients.
“We need long-term investment in not just our workforce but our capital structures.”
