MSPs stage Monklands meeting to fight changes

They say NHS Lanarkshire proposals to remove orthopaedic services from Monklands hospital and downgrade the A & E department has led to growing concern, underlined by a recent protest rally.

Every political party with an elected MP or MSP, local councilors and NHS Lanarkshire have been invited to send a speaker for the top table to give them the opportunity to explain their position on the matter.

Elaine Smith said the rally earlier this month “showed that local people and the wider public are very concerned about the lack of consultation surrounding plans to remove orthopaedics and trauma from Monklands Hospital.”

She added: “The Scottish government must put a stop to this and seek to properly inform the public of their plans to remove vital services from their hospital before any further loss of trust between the community and the Health Board.”

The meeting is at the Indoor Bowling Club in Quarry Street, Coatbridge, at 3pm.