Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins has urged the Health Minister to do all he can to address the crisis facing maternity services at Daisy Hill Hospital.
The Newry and Armagh MLA said: “The maternity service at Daisy Hill is facing an immediate crisis. The fragility of the service has been clear for some time, including the temporary redirection to Craigavon in June.
“For months, we have been working with the Southern Trust, Health Ministers and the local community to find a safe solution.
“Every effort must now be made to recruit the clinical staff needed, including support from other Trusts and, where possible, across the island of Ireland.
“Any move to relocate services to Craigavon raises serious concerns about capacity and, crucially, access for women in Newry, South Armagh and South Down.
“In an obstetric emergency, distance can be the difference between life and death.
“The Daisy Hill maternity team has continued to provide exceptional care in extremely difficult circumstances, and they deserve our full support.
“The Health Minister, his Department and the Southern Trust must now do all they can to protect maternity services and ensure the safety of mothers and babies across the region.
“Mothers and babies in Newry, South Armagh and South Down deserve nothing less. I will continue speaking up for them and ensure they have the best possible care at Daisy Hill.”
CRÍOCH/ENDS