Published: Wednesday, 17th September, 2008 09:00
MSP leads fight against healthboard cuts
By Alexa Brown
Comments (0)
Print Article
Borders General Hospital
A PETITION containing more than 1500 signatures protesting against multi-million pound healthboard cuts was presented to NHS Border bosses by a local MSP this week.
Tweeddale, Lauderdale and Ettrick MSP Jeremy Purvis handed the document to NHS Border chairperson Mary Wilson, in a stance against ‘damaging’ cuts to services at Borders General Hospital and Hay Lodge Hospital in Peebles.
It also called on the healthboard, along with the SNP Government, to reverse the £10 million cuts in local healthcare investment over the next three years.
Mr Purvis told the Border Telegraph: “The number of people over the past few weeks who have signed this petition is a testament to the strength of feeling within the community against these cuts.
“Today has been a step in the right direction. I was pleased to receive their (NHS Borders) assurance that there will not be a continuation of the cuts.
“The number of beds available in local hospitals will be evaluated, and there has also been progress regarding the government’s decision to cut health care in rural areas.
“However, the work carries on. I will be having a meeting with NHS Borders in October to discuss health proposals, particularly those in Peebles, and will be raising further issues as to how the review on rural health funding is taken forward.”
Del.icio.us
Digg
Facebook
Reddit
Stumbleupon
Pensioners have a Gala day