Protest planned at Blanchardstown Hospital

A protest will take place outside Blanchardstown Hospital in Dublin today over fears that Accident and Emergency services could be downgraded.

Staff and local residents claim the hospital budget has been reduced by 20% since 2009 despite treating 10% more patients.

Local Councillor Ruth Coppinger, a member of the newly-formed Defend Blanchardstown Hospital Campaign, said it was only a matter of time before A and E at Blanchardstown was downgraded.

Today's protest will take place at lunchtime.