Republican News · Thursday 24 October 2002

Monaghan General Hospital protest fast enters final week

Independent TDs have given their support to the protest fast and vigil demanding the retention and development of services at Monaghan General Hospital. As the month-long fast and vigil entered its final week on Tuesday 22 October, the protesters at the gates of the Department of the Taoiseach were joined by TDs, who echoed their call on the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and the Minister for Health and Children Mícheal Martin to intervene directly and halt the diminution of services at Monaghan.

Joining Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD at the vigil were Independent Deputies Paudge Connolly (Cavan/Monaghan), Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim), Dr Jerry Cowley (Mayo) and Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central).

The presence of the TDs attracted considerable media interest on Tuesday, as the fast has done since its inception. The protest fast and vigil continues until Monday 28 October. Protest organiser Cllr Seán Conlon said:

"The protest continues to attract warm support from people in the capital, many echoing their negative experiences of the healthcare system. Much admiration has been expressed for the tenacity of those on the vigil who have endured some of the worst weather conditions of the year. We would encourage people to participate in the vigil in the final days. Not everyone, of course, can undertake a 24-hour stint so we welcome all who can offer a few hours of their time on a day of their choice. They can contact us at 047 82917."