Confusion as plans for hospital shelved

10:03am Thursday 14th June 2007

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PEMBROKESHIRE has responded with suspicion to news that controversial hospital plans have been shelved.

Labour's so-called health reconfiguration sparked fears of closure and downgrading at Withybush Hospital and prompted protests across the country.

But, faced with a minority government and massive public opposition, Rhodri Morgan has placed plans on the back burner.

However, hospital campaigners, health bodies and opposition politicians say the move has provided more questions than answers.

Chief officer of Pemb-rokeshire Community Health Council (CHC), Ashley Warlow, said: "From a CHC point of view, we are not exactly sure what this delay will bring.

"Will it bring an immediate halt to all work on the three counties planning forum and proposed merger of the three trusts?

"Those are both significant developments here in Pembrokeshire. We have to ensure that the rural issues remain to the forefront and that core services are retained locally."

Cherie Harvey, of campaign group Save Withybush Action Team, said Mr Morgan had little choice but to implement the delay.

"He had no other option really. To me, it is a good move, a step in the right direction at least.

"There's going to be a lot of talking to be held but it's a cautious welcome and we will be keeping a close on the situation and making sure that we are up to date and keeping the public up to date."

Assembly Members Paul Davies and Angela Burns said Mr Morgan needed to explain exactly what the delay would mean to their local hospitals.

"We now need clarity on this issue," Mr Davies said. "People deserve a clear-cut message on such an important issue."

Mrs Burns added: "We now need to have a proper dialogue between the NHS and local people so agreement can be reached."