A local GP says the record figures could be a result of a lack of care during the pandemic.

Cavan General Hospital is experiencing a “prolonged period of increased activity”.

Councillor O'Reilly says she has heard reports of people "presenting as extremely ill at EDs and being told that they will have to wait up to eight hours".

This comes after a similar warning from the hospital last Friday.

Patients that have non-emergency needs are being asked to seek alternative medical assistance from their GP or pharmacy.

Local TD Brendan Smith says it's a "very important step forward".

Only urgent or emergency appointments are going ahead.

Initial designs for an extension to the Emergency Department at Cavan General Hospital have been received by the Department of Health. The current ED has