A NEW general manager has been appointed to Portlaoise hospital.

Michael Knowles took up the position last Wednesday after being seconded to manage the maternity unit of the hospital since last February.

Mr Knowles, who lives at Ougvale, Stradbally has worked in hospital management for 30 years and held the position of general manager of Naas hospital for 15 years up to last February.

Chairman of the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group, which includes Portlaoise hospital, Dr Frank Dolphin, said: “Ensuring improved quality and sustainability of care at Portlaoise is a core priority for the hospital group. The appointment of Michael Knowles is a significant development for the hospital and part of a programme of investment in Portlaoise.”

Chief executive of the group, Dr Susan O’Reilly, said: “The appointment of Mr Knowles reflects the commitment of the group to ensuring the further growth and development of Portlaoise hospital across the spectrum of medical, surgical, maternity and paediatric care.”

Dr O’Reilly also said that Mr Knowles’ appointment was one of a range of organisational changes planned for Portlaoise and the hospital group.