McCarthy backs dental provisions but criticises delay

2.18.51pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 15th Aug 2006

Alliance Health Spokerson, Kieran McCarthy

Alliance Party Health Spokesperson, Kieran McCarthy, has welcomed measures to cut dental waiting lists for people with learning difficulties, although he criticised the delay in dealing with the issue. The Eastern Health Board today announced that they had signed a contract with Causeway Hospital to help cut waiting lists, following a campaign by BBC Northern Ireland.

The Strangford Assembly Member said: "As Alliance Health Spokesperson and as the parent of a daughter with learning difficulties, I welcome measures taken by the Eastern Health Board to cut the dental waiting lists.

"However, I am annoyed at the length of time it has taken to see these measures introduced.

"I hope that the Eastern Health Board's contract with the Causeway Hospital will significantly cut the waiting list for people with learning difficulties."

Kieran McCarthy concluded: "This development was long overdue and I hope that this matter is not neglected again in future."

ENDS