New research claims 48 people died prematurely in hospital every week in 2024

Almost 2 thousand 500 people died due to lengthy emergency department waiting times last year.  Around 48 people died prematurely in hospital every week in 2024, according to a report in the Irish Mail.  Research found the most vulnerable over the age of 75 waited 3.5 hours more than the rest of the population so far this winter. Already last week there were reports of overcrowding at Sligo University Hospital and a number of other facilities as the number of Flu cases increased.  General Secretary of the Irish Nurses' and Midwives' Organisation, Phil Ní Sheaghdha says the longer people are left on trolleys the worst they're affected: