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Politics forgotten in angry councillors’ united front

13/10/2006

INCENSED councillors declared a united front against cuts to Rochdale Infirmary services and ordered health bosses to go back to the drawing board.

Councillors unanimously agreed with MP Paul Rowen's suggestion to lobby health chiefs and the government for a review over cuts to urgent accident and emergency care.

A heated debate broke out at Wednesday's council meeting after dozens of residents went to the Town Hall to protest against the plan.

The council has agreed to record its displeasure over the downgrading of A and E and the loss of high dependency beds at the infirmary.

The chief executive, Roger Ellis, has also been asked to write to the secretary of state, calling for further consultation, while the cabinet will be asked to pursue a judicial review into the decision.

Councillor Rowen said: "The little services we have should not be moved away from Rochdale. Everyone needs to unite and say this is not good enough, Rochdale Infirmary is being sold down the river."

Numerous councillors agreed with Mr Rowen's statement, including 'appalled' Robert Clegg, a retired senior health executive.

He said: "I am seriously disappointed and I wholeheartedly ask everyone to strongly support this motion."

Councillor Irene Davidson also said as 'custodians of the town', elected members had to safeguard future generations.

Councillor Rodney Stott, an ambulance driver for 25 years, brought home the dangers of scrapping the casualty department, which would force paramedics to travel as far as Oldham or Bury.

He said a trip could make the difference between life or death.

About 200 people protested before the meeting, including Infirmary staff and members of the Friends of Our Hospital.

Councillor Jean Ashworth, a nurse on the children's ward, said: "We must not give up the fight."