Local Papers Commentary
The Western People - 20 August 2002
By Yvonne Mc Alpine
Aug 20, 2002, 16:27

Health jobs at risk: ‘put up or shut up’ Kenny tells Govt.
Dr Sheelagh Ryan, Western Health Board CEO, is to appear before the Minister for Health, Michéal Martin later this week over cutbacks in the Board’s budget. The Board has been told to find cuts of 1.15 million Euro, putting 200 jobs mainly in clerical and administration areas on the line. SIPTU trade unions are opposing the job cuts. It will have an impact on patient care and result in longer waiting lists. Deputy Enda Kenny said: "In Mayo, what is needed is investment in adequate health services, not more cutbacks. It is time for honesty. It is time the government put up or shut up".

Castlebar man ‘evicted for party’
Gardaí are investigating an incident which took place last weekend in Castlebar where an elderly resident of Auray Place was evicted from his home while a number of people took it over for a party. The gardaí were called and detained three young men and the man was later restored to his home.

Drowning tragedies
The community of Westport was plunged into sadness last Sunday with the news of the tragic death of Peter Grady (19) of Farnaught. He was found dead in a swimming pool in Spain where he was on holidays. It is the third tragedy to hit the Grady family in the last four years. He is survived by his parents, Chris and Breda, brothers and sister. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
The tragic death also occurred last weekend of Barry O’Brien (21) the captain of the Dublin hurling team from Sandyford, Dublin. He got into difficulties while swimming with a friend at Dooagh in Achill. His friend raised the alarm but the local emergency services were unable to save Barry’s life. He is survived by his mother Brenda and brothers, John, Tony and David.

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