Demonstrators have today called on Health Minister Simon Harris to meet with people in the south-east over the provision of a second cath lab at University Hospital Waterford.
.@247Cathlab march massive crowds out for it, well done #waterford #ourlivesmatter pic.twitter.com/I8WVYccFvA
— Leonard Skelton (@leonard76_) September 24, 2016
A report commissioned by the Government concluded that the lab was not needed, which sparked a row between Independent Alliance Minister John Halligan and the government.
The rally at bishops place #ourlivesmatter pic.twitter.com/l6g7Y7rSOn
— OurLivesMatter (@247Cathlab) September 24, 2016
The South East Patient Advocacy Group held a march in Waterford City this afternoon, to demonstrate the support for the lab in the area.
Thousands attend hospital protest in Waterford https://t.co/xrJppA6rIV pic.twitter.com/43KvEpXmSn
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) September 24, 2016
Group co-founder Hilary O’Neill says there are enough people to warrant the lab, especially compared to other parts of the country.
“We have a half a part-time one, for 500,000 people in the south east,” she said.
“So when you read that, that’s ugly reading.
She added; “We’re not getting the same services that other areas are getting.
“We pay the same taxes as everyone else, we should get the same healthcare.”
