SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA has welcomed additional funding for health as a result of the latest monitoring round but has called for parties to demonstrate political leadership to transform the health service.
He said: “Additional resources for our cash-strapped health service is always welcome.
“And I have no doubt that the £60m made available to the department will ease some acute pressures.
“But we need a more strategic approach to transforming our health service than simply throwing money at it.
“GP provision, acute service retention, workforce planning and many of the other complex issues cannot be dealt with by signing a cheque every few months.
“Patients know that, frontline health service staff know that and political leaders know that.
“There can be no health service transformation without political leadership.
“The Bengoa report made that clear.
“Professor Bengoa’s recommendations cannot continue to sit on a shelf at the Department of Health.
“We need a robust and costed implementation plan that will deliver a rationalised and enhanced service that meets the needs of patients.
“There’s no space for political drift over the summer.
“Not while patients and staff need action,” added the Foyle MLA.
