Staffing of the cath labs at University Hospital Waterford (UHW) to ensure the delivery of 24/7 care is expected to be completed by year end.

That’s according to Health Minister, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill.

She was responding to a Parliamentary Question from Waterford Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane.

The question asked the Health Minister about the resourcing requirements and time frame for 24/7 cardiac care.

Development of services

“I recently visited UHW and saw first-hand the state-of-the-art infrastructure supporting its cardiac services,” the Minister said.

“Government has invested significantly in providing the resources required to support the delivery of enhanced cardiac services.”

The Minister went on to outline the expansion of the cardiac service to date.

This includes Cabinet approval to move to a 24/7 service in April.

‘Collaborative advocacy’

Minister Carroll MacNeill commended the “collaborative advocacy of local TDs from across the political spectrum” along with the “tireless efforts” of local patient groups and staff.

“The final step in service expansion is the introduction of a full 24/7 service. I am pleased to confirm that I have directed the HSE to progress this,” she said.

“We are working with both hospital and the HSE to ensure the appropriate resourcing.”

She added: “We expect this work to be completed by the end of 2025, subject to the availability of the necessary specialist workforce.”

‘Huge step forward for healthcare’

Speaking to WLR News, Deputy Cullinane described the announcement as “fantastic news”.

“To have a full 24/7 service for the South-East is a vindication for all who have been campaigning for years,” he said.

“This will be a huge step forward for health care in the region.”

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