The extent of Northern Ireland s waiting list shame can be revealed on Wednesday with a growing number of patients facing harrowing waits of up to six years for a first hospital appointment.
In some cases, people with painful and debilitating conditions who have been referred for an urgent outpatient appointment are enduring waits of almost five years before they first see a hospital consultant.
Official figures have also confirmed fears that the pandemic has caused waiting times to rocket, with wait times in some specialties double what they were before Covid-19 arrived in Northern Ireland.
Shocking figures released by the health trusts have also highlighted the postcode lottery when it comes to care - with waiting times varying by more than two years depending on where a patient lives.
Lord Kilclooney: Former Unionist MP has urged NI Executive to help Republic with vaccination programme independent.ie - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from independent.ie Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
As the Prime Minister reveals his plan for coming out of lockdown in England, stakeholders here reveal their views regarding his proposals and if they provide a blueprint for Northern Ireland.
Trevor Lunn MLA: I quit Alliance due to internal tensions - but I still fully support them
Independent Lagan Valley MLA Trevor Lunn, has never fully explained his reasons for ditching the Alliance Party
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