WIGTOWNSHIRE residents are rallying against the decision to not reintroduce maternity services at Galloway Community Hospital (GCH).
Since last week’s announcement by Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership’s Integration Joint Board (IJB), many residents and parents have condemned the consultation, with some dubbing it a ‘a completely disingenuous process’.
Mid Galloway and Wigtown West Cllr, and mother-of-two, Jackie McCamon said: “It is an understatement to say that I am so disappointed by this decision, but sadly not surprised.
“Mostly, I am devastated for the families of Wigtownshire. Voices of mothers and families who have bravely shared some really harrowing experiences of giving birth or pregnancy complications worsened by the gruelling 75 mile trip to Dumfries Maternity Suite, disregarded.
“It would seem that financial restrictions is the main reason for the IJB’s decision. But this has been a factor since the get-go, prior to both public consultations. So what was the point in asking for public opinion? Twice!
“And it’s for that reason that I believe the future of the return of any improved maternity services in the West was decided long before the conclusion of any reviews. The boxes just needed ticked first.
“It’s shameful, a completely disingenuous process in my opinion”
She has arranged to speak to representatives of the IJB to discuss what options are left at local level to challenge this decision.
Meanwhile, the Galloway Community Hospital Action Group will be holding a public meeting on Saturday October 26 at Stranraer Library and are considering a demonstration outside Holyrood.
Already at Holyrood, Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has urged the Scottish Health Secretary to investigate the decision.
He said it is not only “totally unacceptable”, but a “slap in the face” to the many campaigners calling for a return of local maternity services. Mr Carson added: “There is public outrage at the IJB decision which, given the evidence, must have been made solely on financial grounds.
“I ask that you investigate this outrageous decision as a matter of urgency.”
