Maternity hospital inspections discovered rodents, ants and wasps

Rodents, ants, wasps and flies have been spotted during inspections at one of the country’s largest maternity hospitals over the past 18 months.

Details released under the Freedom of Information Act show Dublin’s Coombe Hospital was forced to close a shower room due to rodent sightings.

Women and Infants University Hospital has spent more than €20,000 on pest control services.

Pest control companies use bait boxes in high-risk areas within a hospital facility.

Sinn Féin health spokesman David Cullinane said it was important that patient safety was not compromised.

“Obviously the cost is significant, but it’s an issue that needs to be addressed,” Mr Cullinane said.

“Anything that can be done must be done. It is worrying that one room had to be closed as a result.

“I think management has a responsibility to ensure the issue is brought under control.”

There is no reason to “worry” patients visiting the hospital while the matter is being addressed.

The money spent shows that the hospital takes the matter very seriously and is working to rectify the situation, he said.