Claire Quinn

Health officials and medical bodies have backed Mike Nesbitt after he resigned as Northern Ireland health minister amid a dispute with Ulster Unionist leader Jon Burrows over plans to move emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital to Antrim Area Hospital. The Northern Trust says maintaining emergency surgery at both sites is increasingly unsustainable and risks service collapse, while campaigners oppose the change. Health-sector leaders praised Nesbitt’s focus on clinical advice and patient safety and urged his successor to maintain momentum on the Department of Health’s Reset Plan. Stormont’s health committee is due to question departmental officials about the dispute and the future of the services.

Mike Nesbitt resigned as Northern Ireland health minister after Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows opposed plans to move emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital to Antrim Area Hospital. Health service leaders, medical organisations and officials praised Nesbitt's clinically led approach and emphasis on patient safety, while urging his successor to maintain the Department of Health's Reset Plan. The Northern Health and Social Care Trust says providing emergency surgery across both sites is increasingly unsustainable and risks service collapse, although campaigners fear the move could lead to wider withdrawals. Stormont's health committee is due to question departmental officials about the situation.

Rising temperatures and a prolonged dry spell have prompted authorities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to urge households to conserve water. NI Water and Uisce Éireann advised reducing garden water use, checking homes for leaks and limiting use of washing machines and dishwashers. Nighttime restrictions are in place on several supplies in the Republic as demand outpaces replenishment. High UV and pollen levels are forecast, and the public is also reminded of water safety due to unsafe reservoirs.