Press Release
3rd August 2004

Extension of Consultation “Right Decision” – McNeil
The unprecedented decision of NHS Argyll and Clyde to extend the consultation on its under-fire Clinical Strategy has been welcomed by MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, Duncan McNeil and MP, David Cairns.

Mr McNeil said the decision, which comes after intense lobbying of the Board by both he and Mr Cairns, was the right one and would give the local community a better opportunity to have its say.

“In Inverclyde we are, not surprisingly, deeply suspicious of NHS consultation exercises,” he said.  “It is therefore vital, as I have said from the outset, that this consultation is seen to be open, fair and transparent.

“By heeding our calls for the consultation period to be extended, the Board has taken the right decision and will make it easier for us to have our say, highlight the Clinical Strategy’s flaws and develop alternatives.”

Welcoming the Health Board's change of mind, Mr Cairns said:

“This is the right thing to do.  It will give people in Inverclyde a real chance to let the Health Board know what they think of these proposals.  At long last they are beginning to listen to the local community.

“But we must not be complacent: we must use this time wisely.  I would urge everyone in Inverclyde to take advantage of the extended consultation period, go along to the public meetings and tell the Health Board just how much we oppose their plans.”

NHS Argyll and Clyde has announced that it is to extend its Clinical Strategy public consultation process by a month.  The public consultation process started on 14th June and was due to end on 17th September.  It has now been extended to Friday 15th October 2004.
ENDS  

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