Court hears Mercy Hospital's emergency unit has seen homeless woman 650 times

She told the guard after her caution: “I cannot be in hospital and court at the same time.” 

Garda O’Donovan said the hospital records noted 650 admissions by Ann Marie Ward to the Mercy University Hospital. File photo: Larry Cummins

A 43-year-old homeless woman with serious personal challenges has been admitted to the accident and emergency unit of Mercy University Hospital at least 650 times.

Ann Marie Ward was back before Cork District Court today having been arrested on a bench warrant.