A previous rally in support of Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan. Photo: Seamus Farrelly

Demonstrations in build up to big hospital rally

A mini-demonstration will take place in Navan next Saturday, ahead of the major rally planned for 30th October, as the campaign to save the hospital in Navan continues to gather momentum.

There will be a small march with banners, as campaigners will be handing out leaflets and fund raising for the campaign ahead of the major rally planned for 30th October which is expected to bring thousands of people onto the streets of Navan.

The organisers say they are determined to bring out a huge number of protesters and have been contacting local sports clubs, retirement groups and other community organisations to get them to join the rally and mobilise others to come out in support.

An estimated 40,000 leaflets are expected to be distributed before the protest and another campaign meeting will take place this Thursday night by zoom.

It is also believed local doctors are rowing in behind the campaign.

The rally will be a major show of opposition to proposals to replace Navan's A&E with a local injuries unit.

It is expected to start at the Enterprise Centre on the Trim Road and make its way though the town, up Ludlow Street and Trimgate Street to Brews Hill near Navan O Mahonys.

It was confirmed in the Dail two weeks ago that there are plans to replace the A&E in Navan with a 24/7 acute medical assessment unit (AMAU) as well as a daytime local injuries unit (LIU).