It comes as almost 3,500 health staff are out of work due to covid related illnesses.

Step-down beds in Monaghan Hospital were used last winter to relieve pressure on bigger hospitals.

Minister Donnelly was asked if he supports calls for anti-bullying legislation in light of the passing of Eden Heaslip by suicide.

He's working from home in line with public health advice.

Sean Conlon says the service's opening hours put the unit to the "bottom of the pile".

Its future has been described as hanging in the balance.

Deputy Smyth says Directors and Masters of Maternity Hospitals "give no rhyme nor reason for the draconian rules".

Councillor Shane P O'Reilly says he has been contacted by people whose partner was not granted access during birth, despite updated HSE advice.