Sir,
Following the planning application recently submitted by the Health Trust for a new health facility adjacent to the Health Centre, it now appears that the need for in-patient beds is going to be ignored.
If the Trust is serious in re-providing a Community Hospital in Tenby, why is the application not for a new Community Hospital? It seems likely that the views expressed continually during the past five years by the Director of Nursing, that any beds should be provided in the orivate sector, are now the views of The Trust.
The question that must be asked is: 'Does anyone listen anymore'. After seven farcical years when thousands of pounds have been spent on various investigations, including people's panels, when all have come to the same conclusion, that Tenby needs a Community Hospital, those in authority still will not listen. It has been emphasised that we do not have a wish for a new hospital, which could be easily dismissed; we have a proven need to serve both the resident population, and our visitors.
The proposal to put Health Service beds into the private sector is not acceptable. What is even more worrying is that these beds might not all be under the same roof. We could end up with individual beds scattered around the county.
The case has been made and proven. What more can be done? Everyone concerned should write to the Assembly Health Secretary as a matter of urgency stressing our needs. If the powers that be fail to take note, then our only route is direct non-violent action to bring them to their senses. If necessary, have no doubt that we will carry this through.
Clr. Michael Williams,
4 Harding Street,
Tenby.