THERE are 27 patients waiting on trolleys at University Hospital Kerry today according to figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation.

The INMO compiles figures based on daily checks in emergency departments and wards across the country. The figures are not disputed by the HSE.

There were 22 patients waiting on trolleys yesterday at the hospital and 11 on Monday.

Last month saw the highest number of people on trolleys in January at the hospital (382) since records began in 2006.