HSE issues statement amid fears of overcrowding in Laois A&E this Bank Holiday Weekend
Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise expected to see surge in admissions this June Bank Holiday Weekend
The HSE is urging the Laois locals to consider all available healthcare options ahead of Portlaoise’s A&E Department this June Bank Holiday weekend.
This is the HSE’s second appeal this week, having previously given a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live amid concerns over a surge in demand.
Ahead of fears of overcrowded emergency departments, the HSE has highlighted that GP practices, injury units, GP Out of Hours services and community pharmacies may be able to provide faster and more convenient care for many non‑emergency needs.
“Emergency Departments (ED) provide urgent and emergency treatment, with the most seriously ill prioritised,” a representative for HSE Dublin and Midlands said.
“Non‑urgent cases may experience longer waiting times. Staff continue working to reduce delays, and the HSE apologises for any extended waits.”
As the warm weather continues, staying hydrated is essential to support the body’s ability to regulate temperature, prevent dehydration, and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. The HSE advises drinking plenty of water regularly, even when you do not feel thirsty, particularly when spending time outdoors or being physically active.
Alcohol consumption increases the risk of dehydration by causing the body to lose additional fluids, and drinking alcohol in the sun can further impair judgement and heighten the risk of sunburn, heat exhaustion, and accidents.
“As the June Bank Holiday weekend arrives, we encourage the public to use community healthcare services where appropriate,” the representative continued.
“Emergency Departments remain available for urgent and emergency care; however, those with non‑urgent needs may experience longer waiting times.
“Using Injury Units, GP Out‑of‑Hours services, GPs, and community pharmacies can help people access timely care while reducing pressure on hospitals. Given the recent warm weather, we also remind everyone to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly and to follow Sun Smart advice to protect themselves while outdoors,” they finished.
With more people spending time outdoors over the June Bank Holiday weekend, the HSE is also reminding the public to take steps to protect themselves from the sun.
Urgent out‑of‑hours GP care is available when your own GP surgery is closed. These services are appointment‑only and for patients who need urgent care.
Laois’ MIDOC (covering Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath) can be contacted at or https://midoctlm.ie. Their usual opening hours are Monday to Friday, 6pm to 8am. On weekends and Bank Holidays, MIDOC remains open 24 hours.
Injury Units treat non‑life‑threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, strains and minor burns. All units have access to X‑ray and basic diagnostic services.
The HSE has asked Laois locals to consider the injury units in Naas and Nenagh.
Naas Hospital Injury Unit is located at the Vista Primary Care Centre, Ballymore Eustace Road, Naas, W91 X38W and accepts patients aged 16 and upwards. The clinic is open from 10am to 8pm, including Bank Holidays.
Nenagh Injury Unit is located in Tyone, Nenagh, Tipperary, E45 PT86 and accepts patients aged 5 and upwards. The clinic is open from 8am to 8pm, including Bank Holidays.
“People who require emergency care should continue to attend EDs, where they will be prioritised. Call 999 or 112 if there is concern for serious illness or injury,” the HSE finished.
The health executive also urged Laois locals to visit their local pharmacy for advice on common or minor illnesses; to follow infection-control measures; to stay sun-smart, and to maintain good hygiene, particularly when visiting hospitals.