INO warns of overcrowding in Dublin's A&E rooms

Another overcrowding crisis is developing in Dublin hospitals as the Irish Nurses Organisation warns that some Accident and Emergency Departments are full to capacity, before the weekend begins.

Beaumont, St James's and Tallaght are affected, but it the problem may spread as patients are forced to turn to other hospitals.

The INO, in an effort to alleviate the overcrowding, is appealing to the ERHA to release money so extra beds can be opened.

In a statement tonight, the ERHA has denied that there is any "crisis situation" in Dublin's hospitals.

However, INO Industrial Relations Officer, Eddie Matthews, says the outlook for the weekend is not good: "There is simply not the capacity to treat patients."

He also said that "patients will suffer".