Plans by the Health and Social Care Board to move detox and stabilisation services to Antrim have been condemned as “totally unacceptable” by Derry SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey.
Mr Ramsey attended Saturday’s rally at Derry’s Peace Bridge in support of Foyle Search and Rescue.
The rally, organised by the family of missing teenager Andrew Quigley, heard calls for the setting up of a specialised detox unit in the city to aid many young people in the city battling alcohol and drug addictions.
Mr Ramsey said: “A consultation by the Health and Social Care Board has proposed that specialist services for Derry of detox and stabilisation be moved to Holywell Hospital in Antrim, 55 miles away.
“This is totally unacceptable to me and I call again for a dedicated 24/7 facility to be in our city, and a partnership with Grangewood Hospital to address any mental health issues of those who are seeking recovery.”
Mr Ramsey concluded: “We deserve nothing less and for our young people in particular who need immediate help, care, support and intervention.”
