Defend Racecourse Medical Practice rally at Shantallow Health Centre

A rally has been organised to defend the under-threat Racecourse Medical practice in Shantallow Health Centre.

It emerged on Thursday morning, the current management of the GP surgery have handed back its contract for the delivery of services to the Department of Health, leaving the future of the surgery uncertain.

The rally, which has been organised by Derry City and Strabane District councillor, Emmet Doyle (Aontú), will take place on Monday, at 1.00pm, in the Shantallow Health Centre car park.

Speaking to Derry Now, Cllr Doyle said: "Our health service is under unimaginable strain and our GP services are right at the centre of the storm. Senior practitioners have been warning of surgeries collapsing for years and the Department of Health have done nothing.

Additional Reading

Derry SDLP Councillor calls for new management to be found for Racecourse GP surgery

"A partner is retiring in Racecourse meaning the other partners will be under more pressure to serve more patients. It has handed back its contract and now the Department must step in.

"The services offered by the surgery to the local community are absolutely essential and whilst this is the first practice in the City to find itself in this dilemma, the fear is that it will create a domino effect.

"I am calling on the whole community, all political reps, community groups and residents to show our support for our healthcare heroes on Monday and demand action by the Department of Health. Everyone is welcome”