The consultant cardiologist at Sligo hospital says the new developments planned regarding the cardiology service there are very welcome regardless of what political pressure was brought to bear.
Dr Donal Murray was speaking today following the announcement yesterday that the government has committed to increasing the number of cardiologists at the hospital as well as installing a new cardiac scanner which can replace the majority of functions carried out by the previous Cath Lab service.
Junior Health Minister Frank Feighan has claimed credit for the development, as has local TD Marc MacSharry who says it was part of the pay-out for his agreeing to support the government in last nights "confidence" motion.
Taoiseach Michael Martin has said that no side deals were made with anyone in return for their support.
Speaking to Shannonside news, Dr Murray says he has spoken to various Health Ministers over the years about the need for improved cardiology services at Sligo and local politicians have helped in lobbying also.
I know our politicians have worked hard to bring pressure to bear , and these things tend not to happen unless there is pressure from all sides, so I know as you say, people like Marc MacSharry and Frank Feighan and others have worked very hard to try and ensure that we get this across the line.
I'm sure they've brought all manner of pressure to bear on their Taoiseachs and Ministers and I'm grateful that they've done so.
