INMO Urges HSE to Tackle Winter Overcrowding in Hospitals

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) has called for immediate action from the Health Service Executive (HSE) to address a severe winter overcrowding crisis in hospitals. The situation has reached a critical point, with nurses in the North West region reporting overwhelming workloads and insufficient resources to provide adequate patient care.

On the morning of January 13, 2026, a staggering total of 759 patients were admitted to hospitals across Ireland without designated beds. Of these, 91 patients were located in the North West, specifically 47 in Letterkenny and 44 in Sligo. The INMO highlighted that many patients are being treated in unsuitable areas, lacking essential equipment such as oxygen and suction devices, which is a significant concern for healthcare professionals.

INMO General Secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha expressed deep concern regarding the current state of healthcare, stating that the ongoing crisis has become an all-too-familiar reality. “No one is surprised by this any more,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention to alleviate the pressures faced by nurses and patients alike.

The winter months traditionally see increased demand for healthcare services, but the current levels of overcrowding have reached alarming proportions. According to the INMO, the lack of available beds not only undermines the quality of patient care but also places immense strain on nursing staff who are already stretched thin. The organisation has called for the HSE to implement measures that would provide essential support and resources to hospitals in the affected areas.

As the situation continues to develop, the INMO remains committed to advocating for improvements in patient care and working conditions for healthcare workers. The organisation urges both the public and healthcare authorities to recognize the significance of addressing the current crisis promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of all patients in the healthcare system.

With winter continuing to take its toll on hospital services, it is imperative that stakeholders take decisive action to resolve these ongoing issues.