Deputy McGreehan Demands Action as Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Battles Bed Shortages
Ardee News and Sport – Deputy McGreehan Demands Action as Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Battles Bed Shortages
Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan Urges Health Minister for Update on Waiting List Action Plan
Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda is grappling with significant capacity challenges, as an average of 30 patients per day have been left waiting for a hospital bed over the past week. On Friday alone, 25 individuals were awaiting admission, highlighting the persistent strain on the healthcare facility.
Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan has now publicly called on Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll McNeill to provide an urgent update on the national waiting list action plan.
‘It’s deeply concerning to witness these ongoing pressures at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital,’ said Deputy McGreehan. ‘Patients deserve timely access to care, and our frontline healthcare professionals need adequate resources to deliver that care.’
The Drogheda hospital has faced similar challenges in recent years, particularly during peak periods, and the latest figures underscore the need for immediate intervention.
In response, Minister Carroll McNeill confirmed she intends to bring the second iteration of the waiting list action plan to Cabinet this week.
‘Addressing hospital overcrowding and reducing waiting times remain top priorities,’ said the Minister. ‘The updated plan will introduce targeted measures to alleviate pressure on hospitals like Our Lady of Lourdes.’
However, Deputy McGreehan insists that substantial changes are required to ensure meaningful impact.
‘We cannot continue with short-term fixes,’ she said. ‘The plan needs to include sustainable solutions, such as increased staffing, improved infrastructure, and enhanced community care options to reduce reliance on emergency departments.’
The Louth TD also commended the dedication of hospital staff who continue to deliver care under challenging circumstances. ‘Our healthcare professionals are doing incredible work, but they need proper support. The system is stretched, and we need action now.’
The revised action plan is expected to outline strategies to tackle lengthy waiting lists across the country, with particular focus on hospitals experiencing ongoing capacity issues.
Local residents and healthcare advocates have echoed Deputy McGreehan’s concerns, calling for long-term investment in hospital services to address chronic overcrowding.
As the community awaits the Cabinet’s decision, many hope that the new measures will provide much-needed relief to Drogheda’s main hospital and improve patient care across the region.