Mass resignation of GP's could signal 'disaster'

SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA has said that a large scale departure of GPs from the Health Service would be a disaster and would further entrench the critical issues facing patients across the North. Mr Durkan said: “News today that hundreds of GPs are considering resigning because an emergency rescue package can no longer be implemented as a result of the collapse of the institutions is extremely worrying. Protecting public health is the first priority of any government, our health service is in the middle of a waiting list crisis, a primary care crisis and a GP service crisis. “The election cannot be a six week holiday from those issues. Political posturing or party politicking must come second to protecting public health. The Minister must get around the table with health service professionals immediately and avert this situation.”