18 June 2026

SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said the worsening staffing crisis in the health service is the direct result of a failure to properly plan and invest.

Following new workforce data the Royal College of Radiologists has warned that a shortage of staff is causing delays to diagnosis and treatment for patients with cancer and other illnesses. 

Mr McGrath said the Health Minister must set out clear timelines for tackling workforce shortages.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said:

“People don’t need told there’s a problem, they see it every day. From long waits for scans, delays in diagnosis and treatment taking far too long to start. This report shows how serious things have become, but it also exposes a failure to get to grips with workforce planning.

"We have known for years that we were heading towards shortages in radiology and cancer care. Yet we are still relying on short-term sticking plasters instead of putting a proper plan in place. Patients are waiting longer and in some cases their condition is getting worse while they wait. That should never be happening in what is supposed to be a modern health service.

"Instead of spending millions trying to patch gaps at the last minute, we should have been investing in training, recruitment and retention. Patients cannot afford more drift, and staff cannot continue to carry this level of pressure. This is about people getting the care they need when they need it.”