Nesbitt ‘regrets’ resigning as health minister amid row with UUP leader
Northern Ireland Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has resigned from his post following a disagreement with UUP leader Jon Burrows. The resignation comes during a critical period for the region's health service, which is currently facing significant challenges regarding waiting lists and hospital service configurations.
Why it matters
The departure of a key minister creates political instability in Northern Ireland's power-sharing government during a time of urgent healthcare reform.
Stormont health minister Mike Nesbitt resigned from his post with "regret" amid a row with Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows.
It emerged on Tuesday that the former UUP leader had resigned from the Northern Ireland Assembly portfolio he had held since May 2024.
He had recently come under pressure from campaigners against the withdrawal of emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital in Coleraine, Co Derry.
Mr Burrows was among those who indicated support for the hospital to keep the service.
Secretary of State Chris Bryant thanked Mr Nesbitt for his service, adding it was "vital for patients across Northern Ireland that this work continues without interruption".
"I look forward to the appointment of a new Health Minister as soon as possible, so that there is strong leadership in the Department, further progress on reform and continued stability," he said.
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