UHL protest to take place in Dublin

HOSPITAL campaigner Mike Daly said he and supporters will converge outside the Dáil this Thursday, April 25, to “amplify our call for the reopening of the three emergency departments (ED) units in Munster”.

“It's abundantly clear that relying on a single ED to serve 420,000 people is a recipe for disaster,” said Mr Daly, who adds that Dublin has six ED facilities.

“This glaring inequality underscores the urgency of our demand. Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly's promises of more beds and doctors misses the mark entirely. The truth is, only the establishment of another ED will effectively address the overcrowding crisis.

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“This isn't merely a healthcare issue; it's a mathematical reality. With only one triage and five assessment rooms available, no amount of staffing or resources can expedite patient care adequately,” said Mr Daly, whose persistence secured a second inquest into the death of his father in UHL. His death verdict was changed to one of medical misadventure.

“Our demand is simple yet urgent - either open another ED or significantly expand the existing UHL facility to triple its capacity.

Only then can we alleviate overcrowding and prevent further loss of life,” he concluded.