Maternity services at Daisy Hill may be shifted to Craigavon amid obstetrician shortage

A contingency plan being drafted by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust could see the maternity department at Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry stop inpatient deliveries, with all births temporarily transferred to Craigavon Area Hospital. The trust attributes this possible move to a persistent shortage of consultant obstetricians, worsened by recent retirements and resignations, and acknowledges that recruitment drives across the UK and internationally have not filled the gaps.

Chief executive Steve Spoerry noted that Health Minister Robbie Butler has asked the broader health system for support to maintain services at Daisy Hill, but the trust argues that consolidating care at Craigavon is necessary to ensure safe treatment for women and babies. Union Unison has voiced serious concerns, pointing to Northern Ireland’s highest infant mortality rate and wider health-inequality issues. Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins called on the minister to do everything possible to recruit clinical staff and secure the service, referencing earlier temporary redirections to Craigavon. The trust will work closely with the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency while continuing its recruitment efforts.