Thousands to protest at Waterford Regional Hospital downgrade

Thousands are expected to take to the streets of Waterford later to protest against the proposed downgrading of Waterford Regional Hospital.

Residents in the city say they fear services will be moved from the south east and re-located to bigger hospitals in Dublin.

Those protesting are planning a candle-lit circle from 4.30pm around the hospital.

One of the protesters Andrea Galgey said: "We have to stand up for our rights now and say enough is enough.

"We need to keep these services in the south east, because if we don't we will end up with people dying."