Nesbitt Resigns Over Health Row | Belfast News

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has resigned in a dramatic fallout over the future of emergency surgery at Causeway Hospital, accusing UUP leader Jon Burrows of lacking transparency and failing to publicly oppose closing the service — despite local opposition. Nesbitt, who helped bring Burrows into Stormont and stepped down as party leader for him, slammed Burrows for creating “shockwaves” and not standing firm on his position. The dispute underscores a wider debate about health reform: Burrows insists change is needed but insists it must be balanced with community input, criticizing current top-down decisions. With Burrows unlikely to take the ministerial role, deputy leader Diana Armstrong or Steve Aiken are frontrunners. Nesbitt’s departure, despite his popularity and progress on waiting lists, has drawn regret from across the political spectrum, including First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Health Committee chair, who’s seeking clarity to protect patients and staff during the transition.

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