Fermanagh South Tyrone politicians have welcomed the approval for the business plan for the new Lisnaskea Health Centre that was announced on Monday by Minister Swann.

Speaking after the business case was signed off by Mr. Swann, Sinn Féin MLA Áine Murphy said: “I’m delighted that the business case for the new health care centre in Lisnaskea has now been signed off by the Health Minister.

“Since becoming an MLA in July, making progress on this health centre has been a priority to deliver first-class services for the people of Lisnaskea and neighbouring towns.

“I will continue working to ensure this centre is now delivered without any more delay for the benefit of everyone in the local area.”

DUP MLA Deborah Erskine also welcomed the news, saying: “This is good news for the GP service in the south east of Fermanagh, but isn’t before time.

"GPs are the first point of contact and their work in providing healthcare must be adequately supported.

"With an ageing GP population, particularly impacting in the west, we need to see the number of places for GP training increased.

"With currently just over 110 places, we need a change in approach so the new buildings can deliver for patients.

"The workforce and patients at Lisnaskea Health Centre have been calling for action for some time, following the closure of other GP surgeries and amalgamations. The current site was unsustainable.

"Patient access to services is important, and during the summer I met with the Maple Healthcare group, along with Arlene Foster. We understood their concerns and made a commitment to fight for better accommodation and services available in this part of the district.

"It’s important we support GPs through investment in their services, so that they can carry out their roles effectively.

"With state-of-the-art facilities, such as the development in Lisnaskea, it will be a significant step in better service provision," said Mrs. Erskine.