Ulster Unionist MLA, Tom Elliott, has welcomed the news that the total number of GP’s working in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area has increased in the last five years.

Speaking after receiving the figures through a written question to the Minister for Health, Michael McGimpsey, Mr Elliott said: "The news that the total number of GP’s working in the Western area has increased from 190 in 2005 to 194 now is something which will undoubtedly please many people. When you consider that we have faced an economic situation the likes of which we have seen before, the fact that Minister McGimpsey ensured that additional GP’s were added to the Western area is a credit to him and evidence of his desire to improve the health service here."

"Too often, the man or woman on the street hear politicians talking a good talk but see very little action. Thankfully, in Michael McGimpsey we have an Ulster Unionist Minister who has grasped the massive challenge before him, enhanced local frontline services and sought to cut bureaucracy in order to find savings. This is not only true in relation to GP’s, but also in other areas of the Health Service."

"This is certainly a good news story, but it is also a clear demonstration of effective administration by a Minister from a party which is committed to delivering for the people."