15,000 turn out for Nenagh demonstration

An estimated 15,000 people have joined a demonstration in Nenagh, Co Tipperary to protest against the proposals contained in the Hanley Report on health reform.

The A & E Department at Nenagh Hospital is due to be downgraded under the proposals.

The demonstration was joined by thousands of people from Ennis, Co Clare who are also angry at the implications Hanley has for the General Hospital in Co Clare.

A number of national politicians, including Labour leader Pat Rabbitte, local councillors, community farming and sporting groups joined the protest.

But the protesters say they are disappointed that Defence Minister, Michael Smith did not attend the protest.

Kathleen O’Meara, of the Nenagh Hospital action group, says a meeting will be held tonight to organise a national anti-Hanley committee.