‘Unacceptable’ that 500 patients had to wait for hospital beds over Easter weekend

Stephen McMahon of the Irish Patients Association said having 500 patients waiting on trolleys or chairs may 'appear to be the new normal' but that it is not acceptable. Stock picture: Getty

It is “unacceptable” to have almost 500 people waiting for a hospital bed despite the HSE committing extra supports over the bank holiday weekend, the Irish Patients Association has said.

The latest trolley watch issued by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation shows 495 people spent Monday night on trolleys or chairs in Irish hospitals.