LISTEN: Stormont's health committee should be reconvened as matter of urgency

By Brett Campbell

An MLA is calling for Stormont's health committee to be reconvened as a matter of urgency. 

It's chair says there's growing concern over the dramatic rise in coronavirus cases here. 

Colm Gildernew has requested a question and answer session with Northern Ireland's Chief Scientific Adviser. 

He wants briefed on the current situation and the impact on schools and exam timetables. 

The Sinn Fein representative said issues include the impact and implications of the new variant of virus and the current pressure on our hospitals and health and social care services as we face into the traditionally difficult months of January, February, and March.

“I also want the committee to look at the sharply rising case numbers across the island of Ireland; the potential implications of the return of schools and examinations; and concern around guidance for the clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) population,'' Mr Gildernew added.  

“I believe a committee meeting is urgently required to allow the committee to consider the modelling and advice from the department of health at this critical time for the health system and those working in, and accessIng, those services.

“Given the gravity of the current situation I contacted the committee clerk on Saturday night to action the reconvening of the Committee next week for a briefing and question & answer session with the Chief Scientific Adviser as soon as possible.”