Press Release
SAVE THE
RANKIN
15th January 2001
Community Launches "Save the Rankin" Petition
MSP for Greenock & Inverclyde, Duncan McNeil, will today launch a petition to save the Rankin Maternity Unit.
Under the heading "Save the Rankin", local people are being asked to sign up to show their support for the unit and make it clear to health bosses that any reduction in local maternity services is unacceptable.
The Unit is under threat as a result of an on-going review of maternity services which is currently being carried out by local health authorities.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Mr McNeil, who has been involved in the issue for over a year, said:
"Over the next few days, thousands of campaign packs will be going out to local community centres, trade unions, businesses, public buildings and homes. We are looking to receive the support of as many local people as possible, so that we can leave health bosses in no doubt of the strength of local feeling."
Mr McNeil, both of whose own children were born in the Rankin Unit, also praised the recent work of the Greenock Telegraph in campaigning against the closure and welcomed the paper’s decision to back the petition:
"The campaign being run by the Telegraph has been excellent in raising awareness of the threat to the Rankin. I am confident that, by combining our forces in this way, we can make sure this campaign hits home."
Concluding, Mr McNeil gave details of how anyone who is concerned for the future of the Rankin Unit can become involved:
"If you feel strongly about this issue and wish to collect signatures from your work colleagues, neighbours, or your family, simply call my office on 01475 791 696 and a campaign pack will be sent to you."
ENDS
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