Mike Nesbitt resigns as Stormont health minister

Mike Nesbitt has resigned as the Stormont health minister following a dispute with Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) leader Jon Burrows. The disagreement centered on a proposal to withdraw emergency general surgery services from Causeway Hospital in Coleraine.

In his resignation, Nesbitt criticized Burrows for introducing a “red line” on policy matters, stating he did not wish to be a minister who learned his party leader’s views through the media. Burrows expressed disappointment over the resignation but maintained he was prepared to work with Nesbitt.

Burrows is expected to announce a successor within 24 hours, though he has not ruled himself out for the role. Health sector representatives and the Assembly’s Health Committee have expressed concern regarding the timing of the vacancy, noting the significant pressures currently facing the health and social care system.