Ulster Unionist Party health spokesman Roy Beggs MLA has sought assurances from the Heath Minister regarding safety at Altnagelvin Area hospital following the accidental fire which broke out in a small plant room on Friday night.
Mr Beggs said, “I want to place on record my thanks to hospital staff and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service for their speedy and safe evacuation of patients and for addressing the fire and I support the calls form the Royal College of Nursing for an extensive report to allay any concerns regarding safety.”
The Assembly was informed that water ingress from pipes melted in the fire caused disruption. This led to two wards being evacuated and 33 planned surgical procedures dues to take place on Monday had to be cancelled and 18 procedures scheduled for today (Tuesday) had to be postponed.
Mr Beggs concluded: “I welcome the fact that work is taking place to ensure the hospital is operating normally as soon as possible, and would encourage the Western Trust and the Minister to take on board the concerns articulated by the Royal College of Nursing.”