COUNCILLORS have called for "no more delays" to the construction of a new health centre in Lisnaskea. 

The issue of the much-delayed project was brought up at last week's meeting of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, with work finally due to begin on a new health centre for Lisnaskea this summer.

On Monday last, councillors agreed to write to Health Minister, Robin Swann, to ensure that the construction process is started "as soon as possible".

Sinn Féin Councillor Sheamus Greene said the new health centre in Fermanagh's second-largest town is a "critical piece of infrastructure".

"I think it would be a good thing for the Council to write to the Health Minister and ask that there are no more delays," said Councillor Greene.

"This is the third or fourth delay, and it [the Health Centre] always seems to be put on the long finger.

"There can be no more delays. This is a critical piece of infrastructure that needs to be started as soon as possible."

Councillor Greene proposed that a letter be sent to Mr. Swann, which was seconded by Alliance Councillor, Eddie Roofe. 

"Lisnaksea Health Centre is long overdue," he said. "The current condition is dilapidated, and this is not an appealing location for attracting newly-qualified GPs. 

"A new building and infrastructure would go a long way in helping to secure healthcare in rural Fermanagh."

Local GP and Independent Councillor Josephine Deehan asked that a call for funding for GP elective services was added into the letter.

"I share in councillors' frustration in this matter, and with the appointing of a new Minister for Health, I am really hoping we are going to see things improve greatly in terms of primary care. 

"I support Councillor Greene's proposal seconded by Councillor Roofe, and I am wondering if there could be included a request that funding for GP elective services is reinstated without delay.

"I think this is important, as the dire lack of services in secondary care is putting extreme pressure on people in our community," she added.