Debate contribution: Health
Debate contribution by Mr Mike Nesbitt on .
- MLA
- Mr Mike Nesbitt
- Party at the time
- Ulster Unionist Party
- Date
- 15 June 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution (made as a minister)
- Business
- Question for Urgent Oral Answer
- Heading
- Health
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5614243
Read the official Assembly record
Text
The appalling events of last week — I include those on Monday night — have left a mark on healthcare staff, particularly our international colleagues, some of whom have endured horrendous experiences. As I have stated many times, not only do we benefit from our international colleagues, but some staff groups depend on them. Without their commitment and skills, parts of our health service would simply collapse. That is a simple matter of fact; one that, I suspect, that the individuals responsible for some of last week's outrageous events either do not appreciate or perhaps chose to ignore. Trust security responsibilities extend to hospital premises and grounds. Security issues beyond the perimeter of trust sites are a matter for the PSNI. I was in direct communication with the Chief Constable a number of times last week, and that contact will continue. Many of the issues with gaining access that were faced by staff last week related to disturbances in the surrounding areas rather than on the campuses themselves. The safety of staff is paramount. A range of security measures are in place. Dedicated security teams are available 24 hours a day across our main sites. They are trained in the prevention and management of violence and aggression. They carry out regular patrols, monitor CCTV and liaise with the PSNI. The disturbances largely centred on the Belfast area, particularly the Mater Hospital. The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust engaged regularly with the PSNI, including at a meeting with the Deputy Chief Constable on 11 June. That resulted in an observable increase in police presence in the vicinity and on the site of the Mater and in the emergency department, with police liaising with staff on the ground. Trust security staff and duty managers also provide a range of interventions to support staff that will be deployed, going forward, when required.
310 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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