SDLP West Tyrone MLA Joe Byrne has sought confirmation from the Health Minister that the new Enhanced Hospital in Omagh would, as envisaged in the business plan, have a mental health facility.

He made the enquiry during questions to the Minister. Minister Poots said that the department is looking at the provision of the mental health facility in phase two, at a cost of £23 million, but that the provision of inpatient acute mental health care and addiction services is under review by the Health and Social Care Board.

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The Minister also said that phase two was not part of the current £80m development scheme.

Mr Byrne said: "I raised this matter in the assembly in response to the concerns of staff and patients which have been raised with me.

"In Omagh we do have many experienced mental health nurses and medical staff who have built up a good reputation in dealing with mental health problems it is important that this resource is protected and fully utilised in the new hospital when it is up and running."

(CD/GK)