Speaking after a visit in Beaumont Hospital in Dublin last night, Stephen Donnelly admitted overcrowding levels are not acceptable

Pressure is being put on the health system as Covid-19 and influenza cases continue to increase rapidly.

Theres a high level of COVID-19 and flu on St John’s Ward.

Sligo University Hospital was among those inspected and, on the day of inspection, the waiting time from triage to medical review ranged from 5 minutes to 12 hours and 4 minutes with an average of 4 hours 14 minutes.

It comes as the country deals with a shortage in penicillin-based antibiotics due to issues with production, raw materials shortage and increased demand.

900 thousand people are currently waiting to see a consultant, while 900 permanent posts remain vacant.

Michael Martin stated the way resources are used is key

The unit opened earlier this month and has been busy treating people for a variety of issues.