A senior doctor has said the challenges they face will be a major test for our future development at a meeting of the Fermanagh Unionist Association on Monday.

Speaking at the meeting, Professor Ronan O’Hare, Assistant Director of SWAH and Omagh Hospitals said: “We of course have challenges, last year’s consultation on the future of Stroke Services in SWAH, the outcome which has not yet been decided is a major test for our future development.

“We are also working on bringing additional new services to the hospital, including outpatient clinics that would result in Fermanagh citizens not having to travel to Altnagelvin to be seen by their consultant,” said

“The Western Health Trust is of course looking at increasing care in the community, whether that is in a patient’s home or in a community facility.

“This is a much better option for most people, obviously there are times when primary care in hospital is essential, however patients will be much better when in their own home or within the wider community structure. SWAH and OHPCC are great facilities to have in our area, we will make every effort to sustain the facilities that are present, but also to encourage further services to them and ensure their sustainability.”

On the election front, it is believed sitting Councillor, Diana Armstrong, along with John McClaughry, son of former Fermanagh Council Chairman Collie McClaughry, will run in Erne North for the UUP in the Council elections.

The UUP said they are going through selection processes and hoped to announce all the council candidates in the near future.