Galway Bay fm newsroom - Midwives are being used to 'paper over the cracks' in maternity services at hospitals nationwide - including Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe.
That's according to the INMO, which is reacting to a HIQA report on maternity services across the country.
It found that while UHG and Portiuncula were generally compliant, there are issues with physical infrastructure at both units.
It also noted that Portiuncula did not meet national guidelines for midwifery staffing - with several ongoing vacancies despite recruitment campaigns.
Adding to the situation was six full time midwives on temporary leave at the time of inspection.
At University Hospital Galway, HIQA found there is a sufficient number of midwives in place to meet service needs.
Phil Ni Sheadghdha from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation says midwives across the country are under a lot of pressure....
