The East Antrim MLA said: “We fully support the strategy's principles and recommendations. The analysis clearly outlines the systemic dysfunction in neurology services from dangerously long waiting times and workforce shortages to inconsistent access across Trusts. These issues have been well known for years. What is missing now is not more evidence, but meaningful delivery.
“Over 11,000 people in Northern Ireland are currently waiting more than a year for a first neurology appointment. Thousands more are awaiting overdue reviews. The scale of the crisis and the number of people affected demand that this be treated as an urgent health priority.
“The reality is stark. The current system is failing people with neurological conditions and undermining public trust. People don’t need more words on paper, they need action, and the Minister must not only back this strategy but ensure it is resourced and implemented at pace. That means publishing a full delivery plan, investing in workforce expansion, and embedding accountability across all Trusts and at all levels.”
“Over 11,000 people in Northern Ireland are currently waiting more than a year for a first neurology appointment. Thousands more are awaiting overdue reviews. The scale of the crisis and the number of people affected demand that this be treated as an urgent health priority.
“The reality is stark. The current system is failing people with neurological conditions and undermining public trust. People don’t need more words on paper, they need action, and the Minister must not only back this strategy but ensure it is resourced and implemented at pace. That means publishing a full delivery plan, investing in workforce expansion, and embedding accountability across all Trusts and at all levels.”