Ulster Unionist MLA Robbie Butler has been announced as Stormont’s new health minister.
The appointment of the Lagan Valley representative comes after Mike Nesbitt resigned from the post amid a fallout with UUP leader Jon Burrows over the proposed withdrawal of emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital in Coleraine, Co Derry.
Burrows said he did not support the removal of the services during a townhall meeting last week, making clear his opposition to the plan recommended by health trust bosses.
This is an enormous responsibility, but it is one I take on with determination and optimism. There is no time to waste. I am ready to get to work
Nesbitt, who had not yet confirmed whether he was going to push ahead with the withdrawal proposal, responded with a hard-hitting resignation letter.
The Strangford MLA accused Mr Burrows of imposing a “red line” over the proposed hospital reconfiguration...
