A Sinn Fein councillor is seriously concerned that security is to be reduced at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.
Debbie McCole, a paramedic herself, is a regular visitor to the hospital in her job and especially the Accident and Emergency Department.
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Yesterday she told how security at the Hospital is to be cut to just 12 hours a day and there will no longer be 24 hour cover.
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She now fears for the safety of staff and patients especially in the busy Emergency Department and called for the decision to be reversed by management immediately.
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Cllr McCole warned:” The Emergency Department has consistently maintained a 24 hour security presence, with shifts covering both day and night to ensure the safety of staff, patients and visitors at all times.
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“However this change will limit security coverage to 12 hour shifts from 12 noon to 12 midnight, effectively reducing the service by over 80 hours per week.
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“This is particularly concerning in light of the hospital’s busy Emergency Department and the volatile incidents that can occur. Â
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“It is imperative that we continue to have 24-hour-security staffing at the hospital. Given that incidents have not diminished, I am concerned by the rationale behind this decision and am calling for it to be immediately reversed.”
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