Northern Trust apologises after Moyle Hospital break-in cancels patient care

Moyle Hospital in Larne

Patients attending Moyle Hospital in Larne faced disruption on Monday 29 September after a break-in forced the cancellation of all outpatient appointments.

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust confirmed that damage caused during the incident meant it was “necessary to cancel all outpatient appointments” scheduled for the day.

A Trust spokesperson said:

“It is very disappointing that someone would target our healthcare settings in this way, leaving patients unable to access the care that they require and disrupting the vital work of our staff.

“We are taking steps to reschedule appointments as soon as possible, and we apologise to all those who have been inconvenienced. All appointments from Tuesday 30 September onwards will go ahead as planned.”

The Trust added that staff are working to ensure patients affected are contacted quickly and given alternative dates, while urging the public to report any suspicious behaviour around the hospital site.

Police Investigation Underway

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it is investigating the break-in, which is believed to have taken place sometime between 6.45pm on Sunday 28 September and the morning of Monday 29 September.

A PSNI spokesperson explained that extensive damage was discovered after a report was made at around 8am:

“A window was smashed in a derelict out-building onsite which was also accessed. Entry was gained to the main building through a door that was also damaged. The suspects, believed to be youths, also ransacked a medical room and smashed a cup and television remote in the main reception area.”

Police are continuing enquiries to determine whether any items were stolen. Officers have appealed for anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage from the area to come forward by calling 101 and quoting reference number 173 29/09/25.

Reports can also be made online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Political and Community Reaction

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from political representatives, with local DUP MLA Gordon Lyons branding it “despicable”.

He said:

“I am disgusted to learn that Moyle Hospital’s outpatient department has been broken into and trashed. This despicable act has led to the cancellation of vital outpatient clinics!

“If anyone has any information relating to this incident, please contact the PSNI on 101. Those responsible must face the consequences.”

The cancellation of clinics has left many patients frustrated, with some already facing long waits for outpatient care in the Northern Trust area.

Wider Context

Moyle Hospital, located on Glenarm Road in Larne, plays an important role in providing outpatient and community services for the East Antrim area. While inpatient services at the site are limited, its outpatient clinics are a vital link in the healthcare system for patients requiring ongoing treatment and follow-up care.

The break-in comes at a time when health services across Northern Ireland are under significant strain, with staff facing pressures caused by workforce shortages, high demand, and limited budgets.