New Health Minister Jim Wells said his appointment came as a “complete surprise” after his party’s unexpected Executive reshuffle – but he refused to be drawn on his plans for the future of specific services at Daisy Hill Hospital. The South Down DUP MLA took over from Edwin Poots following Peter Robinson’s shock reshuffle on Wednesday. Speaking to the Democrat Mr Wells has described the moment he found out he was to become the new Minster for Health. “It came as a complete surprise,” he said. “One minute I was sitting in a meeting I came out and I noticed I had 14 missed calls on my phone from OFMDFM and the next I was told I was taking over in the next 15 minutes.” The South Down representative said he is looking forward to his new role in the Assembly describing it as “an incredibly challenging job.” Mr Wells praised the work of his colleague Edwin Poots and says he does not underestimate the level of responsibility now upon him saying the challenges are daunting.” Commenting on Daisy Hill Hospital Minister Wells acknowledged the high level of care and commitment given by front line staff to patients but said: “There is a huge amount to be read before I make an announcement.” Mr Wells’ first engagement in his new role was on Wednesday night with Newry based firm Health Matters.” The Newry firm organized a series of health promotion talks to IFA cubs throughout the north and their latest event on Wednesday night was a conference on alcohol and its effect to youth particularly in the sporting arena. Health Matters MD Mary Doran said: “We are thrilled at the large attendance and interest generated by youth their families team members and coaches and our message in regard to the dangers on binge drinking and drug abuse was further endorsed by having our new Health Minister Wells on his first day of appointment.
30th September 2014
Newry Democrat
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