The Nationalist Party slammed the government’s idea to have a temporary tent accommodating the day care unit reception area, saying it is insensitive and undignified.

Patients who until today wait for surgery in this area will now have the wait outside the hospital building at the height of winter, spokesman Claudio Grech said.

The government’s decision is unexplainable, insensitive and goes against the dignity of the patient. All patients being treated at Mater Dei Hospital deserve a civilised place where to wait and not be placed in a tent, more so considering that patients are vulnerable people, especially on the eve of undergoing surgery.

The tent will serve as a symbol of mediocrity and lack of ideas on the government’s part. It did not consult with anyone on the matter, and underscores the panic level it has reached.

The PN called upon the minister to reverse the decision and take action to see that all patients are treated accordingly.