'I was disappointed,' Lowry hits out over not being allowed to speak at Nenagh protest
'Both Councillor Morris and Deputy Kelly emphatically rejected the proposed solution. Both gave a commitment to overturn the entirety of the HSE decision...'
Independent Tipperary TD Michael Lowry has hit out over not being afforded the opportunity to speak at last Saturday’s protest march in support of patients and staff at St Conlon's.
In a statement on Tuesday night, he said: "I was happy to attend Saturday’s Protest March in support of patients and staff at St Conlon's.
"At the gathering point in the Church grounds, I met several of the staff who welcomed me and expressed appreciation for my presence.
"When I enquired of the organisers about the order of speakers for the day I was told that only two politicians would be speaking, Councillor Seamie Morris and Alan Kelly TD.
"I was disappointed that the Committee did not afford me the opportunity to speak."
Deputy Lowry added: "In the previous weeks I had consultations with staff and unions. Arising from these discussions I clearly understood I was putting forward an agreed compromise proposal to the HSE for the temporary shared use of the new facility.
"The twenty three patients and staff at St Conlon’s would transfer to the upper floor. The ground floor 25 beds would be available on a temporary basis as step-down beds to cater for chronic overcrowding at UHL.
"Most of these patients would be from north Tipperary. I am very conscious that many of my constituents have had an appalling and unacceptable experience with delays in gaining access to UHL due to bed shortage.
"In the Dail last week I asked the Taoiseach for high-level political intervention with the HSE to gain acceptance for the proposal.
"On Saturday I listened to the contributions of the chosen speakers. There was no mention of the compromise proposal. The stance was all or nothing.
"Both Councillor Morris and Deputy Kelly emphatically rejected the proposed solution. Both gave a commitment to overturn the entirety of the HSE decision.
"While I am sceptical of their ability to deliver on this promise, I do wish them success in their endeavours."