Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

MP addresses 'Armagh United' Rally

Published: 21 April, 2009

Speaking at the public rally on Saturday, organised by Unison and the Armagh United campaign, in opposition to the Southern Health and Social Services Trust proposals for St. Lukes, Mullinure and Longstone hospitals, Newry and Armagh MP, Conor Murphy, captured the mood of those gathered and said, '....the greatest potential strength of this campaign is Unity, that political parties must put aside any differences, show leadership and give hope.'

The Minister for Regional Development spoke about the difficult economic times we are all facing, and with that comes difficult decisions, but that those decisions should lead to the '...targeting of inefficiency, not frontline services to some of the most vulnerable in our society, the elderly and those who suffer from mental health problems and learning disability. We cannot afford to lose skilled workers.'

'In discussions with staff, they put forward many good ideas to improve services; we have to ensure they are listened to.'

The Sinn Féin representative also stated that he felt the Armagh United campaign could be a good starting point to look at the overall problems in Armagh City which need to be addressed.

'While the focus and focal point of this campaign is currently the issue of the hospitals, it is possible that the campaign could be expanded and, the momentum gained, used to look at the overall regeneration of this historic City. There is a need for a full community buy in to protect jobs, reinvigorate Armagh and fulfil the undoubted potential of the City. I once again urge a unified approach to all these issues'