Northern Ireland's Health Minister, Robbie Butler, has announced the formation of a new independent expert advisory committee. The Reconfiguration Committee will review how services are delivered across hospitals in Northern Ireland.
Minister Butler stated that the committee will offer advice on major or controversial proposals for permanent changes to health and social care services. He added that it will bring together independent clinical and public-interest expertise to scrutinise evidence underpinning proposals, considering patient safety, service quality, clinical effectiveness, and long-term sustainability.
The British Medical Association's (BMA) Northern Ireland Council chair, Dr Alan Stout, expressed surprise at the announcement, noting that the BMA had not been consulted. Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan, who chairs Stormont's health committee, said the proposed committee "could ensure public confidence in future decisions," provided it is genuinely independent and ensures all voices are heard.
Alliance MLA Nuala McAllister criticised the decision, suggesting it indicates a "caretaker health minister who will dodge difficult decisions."