The Senedd Member for Montgomeryshire has called on the First Minister to address “significant concerns” with Powys Health Board’s hospital proposals.

Russell George MS has accused First Minister Eluned Morgan of “brushing off responsibility” over the issue of proposals to downgrade services at Llanidloes War Memorial Hospital, as well as calling the consultation for the plans “inadequate”.

The approval of proposals for temporary changes to some minor injury and ward-based services in the county by Powys Teaching Health Board was made on October 10, with the board agreeing to introduce the changes for a 6-month period.

Mr George raised this issue in the Senedd, asking for the First Minister’s position on the matter and to highlight that it has been proposed due to the Health boards financial situation.

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He said: "The consultation process took place over the August period, which I believe was inadequate, with many people unable to engage fully with the process, and the term 'temporary change' raises doubts among the community, with many fearing this could become permanent.

“The health board's decision to approve the downgrading of services was attributed to budgetary pressures.

“I expressed my deep concern about the implications of these cuts on patient care with the First Minister and I asked the First Minister to clarify whether she believes the consultation process was thorough and if she accepts the assurance that the changes will be temporary.’’

"We need transparency about what these changes mean for the long-term future of Llanidloes Hospital, and reassurances that budgetary constraints will not compromise patient care in mid Wales.’

(Image: NQ)

“I am further concerned that a downgrading of services, will make it more difficult to retain and recruit staff at the hospital.

“I was disappointed that the First Minister simply seemed to brush off the responsibility of the issue.’’

The plans, announced earlier in 2024, drew criticism from  Powys politicians, medical practitioners and members of the public, with a meeting held in Llanidloes in August bringing out hundreds of residents to object to the proposals.

Responding to Mr George in the Senedd, The First Minister said: “Service changes are not a decision for the Welsh Government, the Welsh Government's role is to provide strategic direction, and it is up to the local health boards to respond to the local needs, and I think it doesn't make sense for us to be managing that from an office in Cardiff.’’