January had record number of patients on trolleys - INMO

January was "the highest month ever recorded for trolley figures", according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation.

The INMO said its figures show over 13,972 patients were treated in hospitals without a bed last month.

It said University Hospital Limerick was the most overcrowded hospital last month with 2,234 patients on trolleys during January.

The INMO's trolley figures show Cork University Hospital had the second most with 1,573 patients on trolleys, followed by Galway University Hospital with 1,388 patients on trolleys.

In a statement, INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said: "Trolleys have been particularly high over the last week. We are now in yet another bank holiday weekend where the system is totally overwhelmed.

"It is clear that the HSE has not done everything that they possibly can and that their 'winter plan’ is failing."

She called on the HSE to outline how much capacity it has acquired from the private sector.

"This has been an extremely dangerous and disappointing start to 2025 for nurses, midwives and patients alike.

"The new government must be laser-focused on safe staffing, increasing bed capacity and fulfilling its basic duties for a viable health service and safe workplaces, before this situation is allowed to get even worse," Ms Ní Sheaghdha added.

In response, the HSE said it said emergency department attendance rates have "increased significantly" in recent years and added reducing trolley figures "continues to be a particular focus".

However, it also said it has seen "significant improvements" in urgent and emergency care.

In a statement, the HSE said: "There are a suite of measures that support ED and hospital avoidance, patient experience in the emergency department, patient flow at ward level and safe and timely discharge, to the appropriate setting.

"In addition, there has been a massive, collective effort right across our services throughout this winter period, with teams working tirelessly to maximise patient flow, whilst ensuring our patients receive the best care possible."

The HSE added it recognises the need for "further work in the experience of the public and staff in such a demanding area of health care and will continue to improve on this".