Thousands set to attend hospital protest

Thousands of protestors are expected to attend a march in Co Clare this afternoon against the downgrading of Ennis General Hospital.

Oireachtas and council members will be joined by both medical staff and concerned locals.

The Hanly report on medical staffing recommends that Ennis and Nenagh General Hospital close their A&E units for 12 hours each day and transfer most acute services to Limerick.

Protestors fear such a move would result in lives being lost.

Up to 20,000 people are expected to turn up to today's protest march.