Cardiac care commitment welcomed in Waterford with commencement date expected shortly

A commitment on delivering 24/7 emergency cardiac care at University Hospital Waterford has been welcomed in the Déise county.

Sinn Féin TD, Deputy David Cullinane, welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Health that the HSE has been directed to progress the final step in the delivery of full 24/7 emergency out-of-hours cardiac care at the Waterford hospital and that a 'go-live' date is expected shortly.

Commenting on the matter, Deputy Cullinane said he welcomed the development.

“This is a hugely significant development for patients and families across Waterford and the wider South East, who have waited far too long for the full delivery of these vital cardiac services," he said.

"I have raised this issue repeatedly over recent years with both the Minister for Health and the Taoiseach, and have consistently pressed for the full implementation of 24/7 emergency cardiac care at UHW," he added.

He also said the commitment to 'go-live' was also very important, but added that what is needed is delivery.

"What is needed next is delivery, and I look forward to seeing that happen in the time ahead," he said.

“It is also important to acknowledge the enormous effort of the campaign groups, advocates, clinicians and the people of Waterford who worked tirelessly to keep this issue on the agenda and to demand the full delivery of 24/7 emergency cardiac care at University Hospital Waterford," he added.

Deputy Cullinane said the progress on the issue didn't happen by accident.

"It is the result of sustained public pressure and determined campaigning over many years," he said.

“The people of Waterford and the South East deserve equal access to lifesaving cardiac care and the delivery of this final phase of service expansion is long overdue.”