Morley's Mouthfuls: This week on Galway Talks August 22nd

Morley's Mouthfuls: This week on Galway Talks

There were further developments relating to the Portiuncula University Hospital this week.

A rally was held over the weekend in Ballinasloe were locals called for the reinstatement of full maternity services, evidence and research behind the clinical decision to remove high-risk pregnancies from the hospital and investment in the facility rather than anymore perceived downgrades.

Things progressed this week, as a meeting was held on Wednesday between local health representatives and local politicians, where the West-Northwest Hospital Group doubled down on the fact that there would be no reversal of the clinical decision.

This was much to the dismay of the newly formed Portiuncula Maternity Alliance and their co-founder Independent Councillor Dr. Evelyn Parsons joined us on Thursday mornings programme to express her dismay at the stance.

This was followed later that morning by an exclusive interview with the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill where she also doubled down on the move saying that she must follow clinical advice and evidence, adding that the safety of expectant mothers was paramount.

There was a stream of questions for the Minister testimonials from those affected in the wider catchment area of the Ballinasloe-based hospital and subsequent reaction to the Minister’s remarks both positive and negative.

It makes the campaign for the Portiuncula Maternity Alliance more difficult, and we will bring you all the latest on it as it develops on Galway Talks.

As the summer season ends, we were privileged to be out and about this week at the 100th Annual Connemara Pony Show at the Clifden Showgrounds. It was a fantastic occasion showcasing an integral part of Connemara’s living heritage. Terence Sweeney gave some great insights into how the show changed from the beginning back in the 1920’s in Roundstone right up to the present day.

We finished off the week with a thoroughly enjoyable broadcast in Glenamaddy for Community Matters and we will be back with you on Monday next where our Galway Great is the legendary Ray Berry.