News from the 32 counties of Ireland

TYRONE
Record numbers of Tyrone patients with serious heart conditions are having to travel to the South for surgery so overwhelmed are medical services in Northern Ireland. In 2008/09 a total of 66 people from the Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency went to the Mater Private Hospital and Blackrock Hospital, both in Dublin, to have heart surgery, a rise of 200 percent from 2006 when only 22 patients had to make the journey. They were accompanied by a nearest relative who was put up in overnight accommodation.
The government figures were released in response to an Assembly question tabled by DUP MLA Maurice Morrow, who has been lobbying to have seriously ill constituents taken off the waiting list.
(Source: The Tyrone Times)

WATERFORD
Waterford’s first ever Gay Pride march took to the streets last Saturday and the committee urged everyone to “come out” and support the celebrations. Ally Cullen, one of the committee members, said people came from Cork, Dublin, Kilkenny, Wexford and Limerick as well as Waterford. Before the parade, she said 70% of the people who have taken part in other pride marches are straight and urged everyone to support the event, whatever their sexuality.
(Source: Waterford News & Star)

WESTMEATH
The late Joe Dolan's family has last week condemned singers who are performing what they have called 'illegal' Joe Dolan tribute acts. The family spoke out after the latest tribute, a musical about the showband legend, was launched last weekend. The show, which was to tell the story of the late singer's life, has since been canceled. It was due to premier in the Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin on October 10 with a tour planned for next year.
(Source: The Westmeath Examiner)

WEXFORD
A pilot had a miraculous escape on Tuesday evening last after his light aircraft crashed into the sea near Tuskar Rock. The man, who is believed to be from England and heading towards a landing strip at Wellingtonbridge, was rescued by the crew of a rowing boat which witnessed the crash. A mayday message was relayed to the Irish Coastguard immediately after the the accident happened. Rosslare Harbor and Kilmore Quay lifeboats were dispatched to the scene along with the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based in Tramore, County Waterford.
(Source: The Wexford People)

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