Alliance: SF minister talks of more funds for NHS but says nothing substantial about reform

The Health Minister Michelle O'Neill on Monday addressed the Assembly on waiting times, saying her department will be bidding for additional resources in this month's monitoring round in order to tackle excessive waiting times.
Michelle ONeill in the Assembly chamber on MondayMichelle ONeill in the Assembly chamber on Monday
Michelle ONeill in the Assembly chamber on Monday

It is concerning to hear more talk from Sinn Fein of the need for more funding and investment instead of anything substantial around reform of the health and care sector.

The health minister prefaced her commitment to dealing with waiting lists in the short-term ‘if’ she managed to secure additional resources in the forthcoming monitoring round.

What will she do if this funding is not forthcoming?

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There was also talk about the need for more people to be treated in the community.

However, when I pushed the minister for details of financial resources she will be allocating within this financial year to increase the capacity in infrastructure and human resources, she was unable to provide any details.

I fear Monday’s statement was about creating headlines, not delivering solutions to the critical situation.

Paula Bradshaw,

MLA South Belfast, Alliance Party Health spokesperson