The Health Minister says the "full available capacity within the HSE" will have to be used this winter to deal with pressures in the Health Service.
Last winter, step-down beds in smaller hospitals like Monaghan, were used to relieve pressure on bigger hospitals.
Speaking at the Cavan Covid Vaccination Centre last week, Minister Donnelly said "a lot of work" has gone into increasing hospital capacity.
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However, he warned that "we are facing a tough winter" and added that healthcare workers are "tired and burnt out".
Speaking to Northern Sound, Minister Donnelly said all available resources will be used this winter:
