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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
“This is particularly concerning in light of the hospital’s busy Emergency Department and the volatile incidents that can occur.
“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.”
