Galway Hospitals’ Security Costs Surge 36% in Just Five Years

UPDATE: Security costs at Galway City’s two main public hospitals have surged by a staggering 36% over the past five years, reaching €3.46 million for 2024. This alarming increase of over €900,000 compared to €2.5 million spent in 2020 highlights a growing crisis in Ireland’s healthcare system.

New data from the HSE confirms that the security expenses at University Hospital Galway and Merlin Park have intensified, with a 14% rise from just last year. General Manager of Galway University Hospitals, Chris Kane, disclosed the figures in response to inquiries from Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell (SF).

The hospitals currently employ a combination of in-house and agency security staff. Last year, 22 whole-time-equivalent HSE security staff were on payroll, costing €1.75 million. Additionally, an average of 50 agency staff contributed to security efforts, amounting to €1.7 million through a contracted service.

These security teams face serious challenges, including managing abuse and assaults against hospital staff by visitors and patients, particularly in the Emergency Department. Their responsibilities extend to ensuring safety across hospital grounds and monitoring vulnerable patients.

Deputy Farrell expressed deep concern over this financial burden, stating, “This seems to be a symptom of the consistent inability of successive governments to tackle the crisis in our health service.” She emphasized the chaotic conditions in Emergency Departments, attributing the need for additional security directly to overcrowding issues.

“If security is deemed necessary for the safety of patients and staff, then it is crucial,” she added. However, Farrell raised questions about the government’s commitment to addressing these systemic issues, citing underfunding in the National Development Plan. “What impact will that underfunding have on our own elective hospital and indeed the beds that are desperately needed in Galway?”

The HSE acknowledged the critical role of security teams, stating they operate 24/7 across hospital campuses to ensure safe and effective operations.

This significant increase in costs reflects a broader trend within Ireland’s healthcare system, raising urgent questions about resource allocation and patient care standards. As the situation develops, many are left wondering what measures will be taken to address these escalating security needs and the underlying issues plaguing the healthcare sector in Galway and beyond.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the community continues to grapple with the implications of these rising security expenses.