Trolley figures nationally have reached their highest point since the start of the pandemic, according to the latest figures from the INMO this afternoon.

316 people are waiting without hospital beds across the country. This is the highest figure since the pandemic began in March 2020.

The INMO has warned that overcrowding poses a COVID cross-infection risk for patients and staff alike.

There are 36 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to Mayo University Hospital today, the third highest number in the country.

Saolta issued a statement this morning stating that Mayo University Hospital is extremely busy today, which has resulted in pressure on bed availability in the hospital.

The Castlebar hospital featured in today’s Irish Star newspaper as concerns were expressed about users of the ED, where patients had to wait in a tent at the entrance to the hospital to be seen by a doctor.

The paper carries photos taken last Friday of people waiting in the tent, with the flap open to the elements on one of the coldest days in the year.

Speaking to Midwest News today the Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Blackie Gavin says the situation at Mayo University Hospital at present is worrying and not acceptable.

He is to raise the issue of the temporary structure and its purpose with the CEO of the Saolta group Tony Canavan at a meeting this afternoon. The fianna Fail councillor has called for the structure to be removed immediately.

Midwest News contacted Saolta this morning and asked for a spokesperson on the overcrowding situation at the hospital at present, and we are awaiting a response.

In a written statement Saolta says it regrets that patients are currently experiencing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to an acute bed in the hospital.

The public are reminded only to attend the Emergency Department (ED) only in the case of real emergencies. If your health problem is not an emergency you should contact your GP during normal surgery hours or the WestDoc GP Out of hours service, in the first instance.

The Injury Unit in Roscommon University Hospital is also open 8am to 8pm 7 days a week, 365 days a year to treat adults and children.