'We all make mistakes' - TD apologises for insensitive laser display ad outside hospital's cancer wing

Independent TD for Waterford Matt Shanahan has made a public apology on X following backlash after he projected "Vote Shanahan" on a University Hospital of Waterford building, without permission from the HSE or the hospital itself.

The building in question houses a palliative care ward along with oncology services.

A spokesperson from the HSE commented,

"After 7pm yesterday evening, UHW management were advised of a projected image on the exterior of the Dunmore Wing, after engagement with the parties involved the projection of the image ceased and the vehicle involved vacated the UHW campus shortly before 8pm.

"UHW would ask that any activity of this nature is conducted outside the boundaries of the UHW campus and respect the privacy and dignity of UHW patients, visitors and staff.

"Questions regarding rules in relation to general election campaigning should be directed or checked with the local returning officer."

READ NEXT: Your essential guide to voting in the 2024 General Election

Matt Shanahan, who has been canvassing his constituency in the run up tp Friday's election, maintains he is a Healthcare and Enterprise campaigner, fighting for equality, the environment and political recognition for Waterford and the South East.

The incident on the hospital's Dunmore Wing was reported by WLRFM on Wednesday with Shanahan initially defending the bright laser display, saying "it could not disturb or be seen in any way by patients resident."

The TD has since made an apology via social media platform X, expressing that he regrets "any upset" and how he hopes voters will not judge him on this "one event" but rather the "10 years record of fighting for this hospital".

The apology reads,

"I wish to apologise for any upset that I caused by using the gable end of the Dunmore Wing to create raise awareness of my election campaign.

"As humans, we all make mistakes. I was trying as I have done repeatedly in the Dáil, to shine a light on the issues facing our hospital which remains completely underfunded. In this instance, with this activity I regret any upset caused.

"I am deeply passionate about University Hospital Waterford, and I hope the people of Waterford know that. My activity was solely directed at keeping UHW and allied services at the forefront of our regional political debate.

"This has been a learning experience for me, but my determination to fight tooth and nail for the people of Waterford is as strong as ever.

"I ask you to judge me on my 10 years record of fighting for this hospital and not just this one event. Matt Shanahan."

Statement - I wish to apologise for any upset that I caused by using the gable end of the Dunmore Wing to create raise awareness of my election campaign.

As humans, we all make mistakes. I was trying as I have done repeatedly in the Dail, to shine a light on the issues

— Matt Shanahan TD (Ind) (@MattShanahanTD) November 28, 2024

Matt Shanahan has been contacted for comment.