Minister for Health and Social Services, Edwina Hart, visited two major hospital facilities on Friday, showing her commitment to service provision in Pembrokeshire. 

Accompanied by Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MP Nick Ainger and Mid and West Wales Labour AMs Alun Davies and Joyce Watson, the minister met with hospital staff and patients at Withybush and South Pembs. Hospital.

During her visit, Mrs. Hart took the opportunity to discuss issues such as community care, chronic illness management and patient care in rural areas with members of staff.  

Mrs. Hart was able to view at first-hand the great work that is being undertaken at Withybush, including closer working relationships between departments - a positive approach brought about by chief executive Caroline Oakley. 

Nick Ainger MP said: "The minister's grasp of the health situation in Pembrokeshire is a real breath of fresh air. Her readiness to meet with staff and patients has proved there is no hidden agenda. We are committed to ensuring that patients in Pembrokeshire have the very best access to care. Record investment in a new MRI scanner, A&E department and plans for a renal unit and single rooms in Withybush together with the brilliant new facilities in South Pembrokeshire Hospital and Tenby prove that commitment."

Mrs. Hart reaffirmed her assurance that plans to merge the NHS Trusts in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire would not affect the way in which services are currently delivered.

Alun Davies AM said: "Pembrokeshire has some fantastic health facilities of which we can all be proud. The minister's statements during her visit were definitive. We are looking at a period of investment and improvement of services - not closure. South Pembs Hospital is truly remarkable and this site has set the benchmark for other counties to follow. It is the first integrated health and social services facility in the whole of Wales and I know that the benefits of such a site are being felt across the county."

Joyce Watson said: "I, like many others in the county, hold Withybush close to my heart - it has over the years, served me and my family well. Now is the time that we look forward to continuing to develop this wonderful facility. Labour is committed to Withybush Hospital.  This is good news for all of us as patients, and also for the nurses, doctors and ancillary workers who do an excellent job."