Donegal healthcare advocates have launched a Five-Point Pledge demanding election candidates commit to real improvements in local healthcare services ahead of the General Election.
The pledge, driven by a coalition of medical professionals and community leaders, addresses critical gaps in funding and services at Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) and throughout Donegal.
In a statement, the coalition say that Donegal residents have long faced extended wait times, overcrowded facilities and insufficient resources at LUH, one of Ireland’s busiest hospitals.
The Five-Point Pledge is a commitment for candidates to prioritise five specific actions if elected:
1 - Equitable Funding – Secure fair funding for LUH based on population and healthcare needs.
2. Implementation of Model Three Recommendations – Act on recommendations to strengthen LUH’s services and capacity.
3. Surgical Hub for Donegal – Establish a local surgical hub, reducing the need for patients to travel outside Donegal for essential care.
4. Modernisation of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) – Upgrade LUH’s ICU to support safe, effective patient care.
5. Minor Injuries Unit for Donegal – Develop a Minor Injuries Unit to relieve pressure on the Emergency Department.
"This election is a critical moment for Donegal," said Dr Áine Keating, Consultant and campaign spokesperson. "Our communities need concrete commitments, not vague promises. We are asking each candidate to sign this pledge as a commitment to the people of Donegal and to act on it if elected."
