Levelling up maternity provision vital in west
I know from on-going correspondence from the west of the constituency there remains a significant appetite for a resumption of full maternity services within the Galloway Community Hospital in Stranraer.
Given the geography of our wide region I do not believe that is unreasonable and I would urge the devolved Scottish Government and the local NHS to do their utmost to deliver on this.
The service was lost some years ago, not least because of staff recruitment challenges, but demand for a unit which provides the option of ‘lower-risk’ births to take place in a local hospital has not gone away.
I was disappointed that an NHS Dumfries and Galloway engagement with stakeholders earlier this year was not considered conclusive and a further study is now set to begin on November 20.
A three-track system with mothers in Wigtownshire having the option of a local hospital birth in Stranraer, a home birth or, particularly where there is risk of complications, at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary would be the ideal scenario.
There is no escaping the challenges facing the NHS but I’m surprised a further consultation has proved necessary before steps are taken to reduce the need for expectant mothers to make gruelling 70-mile plus journey in sometimes traumatic circumstances.
I would, however, still encourage would-be parents and other stakeholders to engage with the latest survey as quickly as possible to hopefully accelerate the decision-making process. The online consultation is due to go live from Monday at https://dghscp.co.uk/maternity-consultation
Lest we forget
I was pleased to have the opportunity to attend the service of remembrance in St John’s Church, Dumfries on Sunday morning and the subsequent two minutes silence, wreath-laying ceremony and parade at the war memorial outside.
My wife Ann and I laid poppy wreaths on behalf of the UK Government and the House of Commons and it was heartening to see such a large turnout of local people and so many organisations, including biker veterans, represented at what was a dignified and moving event.
I’m sure, like everyone there, my thoughts were very much with those who were lost in the service of their country and, during this difficult time internationally, I was reminded of the human cost of conflict around the world.
The Dumfries ceremony was, as usual, organised like clockwork and I would like to pay tribute to all involved including co-ordinator Frank Roy, Mr Harris from the Royal British Legion Scotland and the Rev. Janice Aiton, who led the services.