Letterkenny University Hospital faces emergency department and ambulance delays

Letterkenny University Hospital is facing severe operational pressures, with its Emergency Department reported as ‘extremely busy’. High attendance rates have led to all escalation and surge areas reaching capacity, with patients waiting on trolleys for hospital admission. Due to the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is reviewing elective surgeries for potential deferral, prioritizing only urgent and time-sensitive procedures.

These pressures have impacted regional emergency services. Councillor Gerry McMonagle warned that ambulance crews from neighboring counties, including Sligo, Leitrim, and Roscommon, are frequently required to cover Donegal because local ambulances are tied up in handover delays at the hospital.

Concerns have been raised regarding the National Ambulance Service's operating model and resource allocation. McMonagle noted that spending on private ambulances in Letterkenny rose from €1.36 million in 2024 to €1.75 million in 2025, suggesting these funds should be redirected to the National Ambulance Service to address increasing demand and population pressures.