Thousands in West Cork without regular after-hours GP service after doctor retires

An estimated 4,000 people live in the catchment area and are now without regular cover during the week and at weekends following the departure of a local doctor

The HSE is engaging with SouthDoc to find a solution to the problem in West Cork. Stock Image: Eddie O'Hare

At least 4,000 people in West Cork are without regular after-hours GP cover after a doctor retired and returned to his native South Africa two weeks ago.

Dr Ernest EJ Cranna, who saved the life of an unborn twin in 2008 during an obstetric emergency, came to Ireland in 2006 to retrace his ancestral roots after retiring from his busy Cape Town practice.