WORKING FOR YOU People deserve ‘clear choice’ on hospital’s future

The findings of the independent review into NHS Lanarkshire’s consultation on the future of Monklands Hospital have finally been published – and it’s fair to say not everyone is happy.

The review made recommendations about how NHS Lanarkshire could improve the opportunities for local people to participate in the process of deciding the final location of the new Monklands Hospital.

I believe that NHS Lanarkshire should reflect on these recommendations and act to address the complete breakdown in public trust which resulted from the initial consultation process examining the hospital’s future.

However, I cannot understand why the Scottish Government’s health secretary, Jeane Freeman, has single- handedly decided to remove the current Monklands site as an option for the location of the new hospital.

It’s clear from speaking to my constituents that the current site is their favoured location because of the advantages it offers, such as established public transport links.

Ms Freeman has chosen to ignore the will of the people and put the views of local SNP politicians first.

The communities which rely on Monklands Hospital deserve better than playing second fiddle to the internal politics of the SNP.

I will continue to call on Ms Freeman to reverse her decision to remove the current Monklands site as an option for the location of the new hospital.

My constituents deserve a clear choice on the future of Monklands Hospital – and for their views to be heard across the board.

Meanwhile, I have pledged my support to the Guide Dogs campaign which calls on the government to do more to end discrimination against guide dog owners.

The government must properly enforce the law by taking action against people and organisations which refuse guide dog owners access to services.

Anyone wishing to contact me relating to any matters of concern, or to raise any questions you may have, can call my office on 01236 434 565 or email hugh.gaffney. mp@parliament.uk .

Falling on deaf ears? Mr Gaffney claims health secretary Jeane Freeman has “chosen to ignore the will of the people” by removing the current Monklands site as an option for the new hospital’s location