Councillor calls for surge plan at Mayo University Hospital amid rising flu cases
Cllr Harry Barrett
A Mayo councillor is calling for a surge plan at Mayo University Hospital (MUH) in Castlebar to deal with the rising flu cases in the county.
Castlebar-based Independent Cllr Harry Barrett said the hospital is "already under severe pressure and the situation is becoming unsafe".
“I have been contacted by staff who are deeply concerned about what is happening inside the hospital,” he added.
The Independent councillor pointed to worrying trolley numbers and the impact on patients and their families.
“These are not numbers on a page. These are mothers, fathers and grandparents left waiting for hours without the care and dignity they deserve.
"Leaving elderly patients on trolleys for more than six hours carries serious risks. Families are reporting confusion, distress and visible deterioration. Long periods on trolleys increase the chances of infection, dehydration and pressure sores. This is a danger to patient safety and it cannot be normalised."
He called on the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill to intervene.
“Flu season happens every year and this one is going to be particularly bad," said Cllr Barrett. "What people cannot understand is why there is still no clear surge response when the warning signs are obvious. Hospital staff are doing their best, but they are being stretched beyond what is reasonable.
“I am also calling on the Minister for Health to use her powers to ensure Mayo University Hospital is made safe over the Christmas period. It's happening on her watch.”
