Crumlin Hospital to close wards in cost-saving plan

Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Dublin is reportedly set to close up to two wards as part of efforts to avoid a €10m budget overrun this year.

Reports this morning say the first ward is set to close within a matter of weeks, with a second closure possible later in the summer.

The hospital is also reported to be planning theatre closures and a reduction in out-patient and day-case activity.

Our Lady's is Ireland's largest paediatric hospital, with 248 beds and more than 1,500 staff.

A protest was held at the facility last night to highlight opposition to the planned cuts.