INMO figures show over 60 patients were left waiting on trolleys in February

At least 61 people were waiting on trolleys or in wards in Navan without a hospital bed last month, according to recent Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation figures.

This compares to 15 who were left on trolleys in the same period last year.

Deputy Johnny Guirke said “This is appalling and cannot be allowed to continue. Behind every number is a person who has been let down by the Government.

“These shocking figures underline the failure of government to properly resource enough beds and staff for hospitals to safely manage patients.

“9,869 patients were without a bed in the month of February across the country.

“The high trolley count indicates that some hospitals are running dangerously over capacity. This will have had consequences for patient care and the cancellation of surgeries and appointments.

“The government and HSE need to be taking all steps to reduce hospital overcrowding. The Minister must ensure that the ED Taskforce meets and that all options are on the table.

“Targeted measures for tackling emergency department overcrowding are required – both investment and reform are needed.

“I want to commend the staff in Navan, who are doing incredible work under extraordinary pressure to care for our community. People in Meath deserve better from this government and must see these changes implemented urgently.

“I will continue to hold the government to account on this to ensure that these scandalous figures do not continue. Staff and patients at Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan must receive the support they need. There can be no more delays or excuses.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Darren O'Rourke called for an urgent solution to ensure Navan Mental Health Day Hospital services are returned to full capacity.

"The Navan Mental Health Day Hospital provided a very important and busy service before Covid struck. In March 2020 the Day Hospital building was required by Our Lady's Hospital for social distancing purposes and, in the meantime, alternative accommodation was provided for the Day Hospital. This accommodation is not suitable, however, and means that services are severely curtailed.

Mental Health Minister, Mary Butler confirmed in the Dail last week that the Day Hospital will reopen "as soon as possible".