Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council agreed to invite executives from the Southern Health and Social Care Trust to a meeting. The council wants details on delays in domiciliary care packages, with 817 people waiting as of early 2026.

SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon raised the matter at the council's monthly meeting. He pointed to delays in rural areas such as Derrynoose, Madden, Blackwatertown and Tullysaran. O’Hanlon sought timelines for clearing the backlog, a recruitment plan focused on rural zones and steps to reduce differences with other trusts including the South Eastern Trust.

Alliance Councillor Robbie Alexander noted limits in care provider capacity in rural areas. He said people wait for packages to open up when others pass away. Alexander cited cases preventing hospital discharges, including end-of-life situations.

DUP Councillor Lavelle McIlwrath said four families contacted him in the last 10 days. Their private provider care packages face removal in areas around Keady, Glenanne and upper Markethill.

Ulster Unionist Councillor Julie Flaherty said the Southern Trust has held the highest waiting numbers across Northern Ireland for years. She highlighted insufficient respite care for parents of children with disabilities.

DUP Alderman Paul Greenfield described a case from that morning. A man reported his wife, who broke her shoulder in Craigavon 10 days earlier, still lacks a package and blocks a hospital bed.

Alliance Councillor Peter Lavery seconded the invitation proposal.

Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray confirmed the council will issue the invitation to the Trust chief executive.