The planned closure of the Tenby Cottage Hospital Minor Injury Unit took another unforeseen twist this week when the Health Minister at that time, Lesley Griffiths, returned the matter to the local CHC and Health Board in order for them to negotiate a compromise solution.

It was to be one of Ms. Griffiths's last acts as Minister as she was then replaced by AM Mark Drakeford.

"It is an extraordinary decision, considering the local Community Health Council, with members largely appointed by the Minister, has the responsibility of researching and representing the community's views," said Mansel Thomas, chairman of the South East Pembrokeshire Community Health Network.

"This it has assiduously undertaken over recent years. When it decided on a course of action and referred the matter back to the Minister for a decision, for the Minister not to accept this as adequate is very strange. Why appoint a CHC if their work is to be undervalued? What role is it to have, a rubber stamp for Health Board decisions?"

Mr. Thomas continued: "The view that the decision to close the unit was made a long time ago is further reinforced. The community has made its views clear through the consultation process, with an overwhelming response not to close the unit. This was supported by petitions and large public demonstration meetings. The CHC listened to the arguments and supported the community's view. All this has been ignored by the Health Board and now apparently by the Welsh Government.

"Professor Morton Warner, founding director of the Welsh Institute of Health and Social Care at the University of Glamorgan, wrote in the Western Mail this week that it is the Health Boards that have 'shown little inclination to change their minds once an original proposal has been put forward'. From what we gather, it is the Health Board that has not been prepared to compromise in the case of the MIU.

"Prof Warner also stated that: 'The public needs to be given a clear picture of the health gains after changes.' That is certainly true in South East Pembrokeshire where the Health Board is simply tearing apart an effective minor injury service. Our own GPs state that the decision to close will be deleterious to health provision in this area."

The South East Pembrokeshire Community Health Network has its next meeting at New Hedges Village Hall on Tuesday, March 26, at 2 pm, to discuss developments. All local AMs have been invited.