Belfast News Editorial: A National Disgrace

Speculation is rife that Noreeen Troupe, a 73 year old Portaferry woman died in her home in a reported 'heat or eat' tragedy after a preliminary post mortem determined the cause of death to be hypothermia.

The pensioner who was housebound following a fall before Christmas, is thought to have gone undiscovered for several days, until concnerned neighbours raised the alarm. Ms Troupe lived in her High Street home in the town, for nearly 30 years

Joe Boyle, a local councillor described Ms Troupe’s death as a 'eat or heat' tragedy. Continuing, 'It is an alarming situation when elderly people are dying in their homes of hypothermia. Questions need to be asked urgently.'

Given the severe weather, the increased prices in food and fuel and the tough economic conditions we find ourselves in, we must all remember to look out from friends, family and neighbours, but we must also hold those politicians accountable that have been charged by the electorate to look after our communities. Come the 2011 Northern Ireland Assembly Elections you will have the right to replace those politicians who have lived it up, while others in need drew their last breath.

Last Updated: 31st January 2011