Sinn Féin Councillor Debbie McCole has welcomed the decision to reinstate an additional security officer in the Emergency Department at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, with the position set to return on 12 January.
Cllr McCole expressed concern over the original decision to reduce security staff, saying she still does not understand the reasoning behind it. She highlighted a recent incident in which two hospital staff members were attacked by a patient, describing it as distressing and wishing them a speedy recovery. She added that rising levels of anti-social behaviour in the hospital have led to more serious incidents than in previous years.
Speaking about the reinstatement, Cllr McCole said that the safety and welfare of patients, visitors and staff must be the top priority. She said the recent attack demonstrates the need for a visible security presence in the Emergency Department and stressed that the hospital cannot be left without protection.
