VIDEO: Health Minister makes Mayo A&E promise

HEALTH Minister Simon Harris has moved to deal with growing concerns over understaffing and overcrowding at Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar.

Speaking in the county town, he said he accepted the facility had shortcomings that needed to be urgently addressed at a unit that was designed for an annual through-put of 25,000 patients but is expected to handle an estimated 40,000 patients by the end of this year.

He stated a temporary structure will be put in place early next year following the commissioning of a study, which is due to be completed later this month.

A more permanent solution to the issue is also top of the agenda for him and his department.

Minister Harris gave a full outline of the proposals when he addressed the public when visiting Castlebar Voluntary Social Services Centre.