Irish hospitals face rising overcrowding and industrial action

Hospitals in Ireland are experiencing critical levels of overcrowding, with the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) reporting that 824 patients were being treated without a bed on Wednesday. This figure represents the highest daily count recorded so far this year.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) stated that an ongoing public sector work-to-rule, part of pay negotiations regarding the cost of living, has significantly impacted service delivery and operational resilience. The HSE noted that hospitals are facing exceptional demand and record levels of emergency department attendances.

INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha described the situation as “dangerous” and a “total failure in planning.” The union highlighted that staff are stretched thin due to understaffed wards and a cessation of recruitment for vacant posts. Specific overcrowding was noted at University Hospital Limerick, which had 108 patients without beds, as well as Letterkenny University Hospital and St Vincent’s University Hospital.