ANDREW RT DAVIES MS has written to the Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board demanding urgent assurances over the state of hospital facilities following disturbing reports from Barry Hospital and the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
At Barry Hospital, a patient reported blood dripping through ceiling tiles into a consultation room, alongside accounts of rats in the ceiling voids. At the University Hospital of Wales, whistleblowers and internal reviews highlighted serious issues including water leaks, pigeons entering trauma theatres, thefts, and the discovery of illegal drugs in a staff locker.
In his letter to Professor Charles Janczewski, Mr Davies said patients and staff were being exposed to “wholly unacceptable conditions” and called for assurances that a rolling programme of maintenance is in place to prevent such incidents from recurring. He also urged the Health Board to ensure clear reporting mechanisms are established so that the Senedd and the public are kept informed of progress.
Andrew RT Davies, Senedd Member for South Wales Central and former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, wrote: “In light of these serious matters I know you will agree that patients expect urgent assurances that a comprehensive rolling programme of maintenance is in place. This should not consist solely of reactive repairs, but must be proactive and preventive to ensure that hazards such as those at Barry Hospital and the University Hospital of Wales are identified and resolved before they put patients and staff at risk.
“I also ask that there are clear reporting mechanisms to ensure that the public and the Senedd are kept informed of maintenance priorities, progress, and completed works. Patients must be confident that our hospitals are safe, clean, and properly maintained.”
The Herald has approached Cardiff and Vale University Health Board for comment.
