Calls have been made for the new Plaid Cymru Welsh Government to look at reopening the A&E department at Newport’s Royal Gwent Hospital.
Newport and Islwyn MS Natasha Asghar used her first question of the new Senedd term to raise the important issue with the First Minister today (June 2).
The Welsh Conservative politician told the Welsh Parliament:
“In Newport, there are growing calls for the A&E department to be re-opened at the Royal Gwent Hospital in the heart of the city.
“It’s anticipated that the cost of doing this would be around £10m a year – which in the grand scheme of things is a drop in the ocean when looking at the Welsh Government’s budget.
“Not only would this alleviate the pressure on the Grange, but it would also create job opportunities – something particularly needed given recent warning that up to half of all nursing graduates in Wales may be left without a job due to recruitment challenges – Despite NHS Wales services facing unprecedented pressure.”
Natasha called on the Welsh Government to heed her constituents’ calls and engage with the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board to explore reopening the Royal Gwent’s A&E unit.
In response, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said:
“We hear the calls, as I will hear calls, no doubt, for investment in different parts of the country. What's important to me, I think, is to recognise the challenges that are being faced by the Member's constituents, to put together a level of service that provides for the needs of her constituents
“Welsh Government officials, NHS performance and improvement, and the health board are currently working together to agree an intervention approach based on the infrastructure that we have for the delivery of health. Let's see where we can get on improving the services in that way.”
Commenting after the exchanges, Natasha Asghar MS said:
“It is clear from conversations I have had with constituents both during and before the election campaign, that there is a desire to see an A&E department re-opened in the centre of Newport.
“Not only would re-opening the A&E at the Royal Gwent alleviate pressure elsewhere, but it would also bring care closer to home for many and offer job opportunities.
“I will continue to stand up for my constituents and lobby the Welsh Government until the A&E department is re-opened at the Royal Gwent.”
