Over 20 people are waiting at the ED for treatment today.

While the number of positive patients in local hospitals is still low compared to earlier this year, health officials are urging the public to be mindful.

A total of five million euro was earned by hospitals nationwide last year through parking and clamping charges.

Bike hire schemes have been launched recently in Mullingar and Athlone and it's hoped that a similar project could be brought to Longford town

The Irish Patients Association has branded the bill as a 'waste of money'

A decision is due in July.

The figures were released under freedom of information.