Support your community by keeping access clear for emergency services and knowing your care options

HSE South West is encouraging everyone in Cork to enjoy the August bank holiday weekend safely, by being aware of their local healthcare options and helping to keep access clear for emergency services.

Dr Anne Sheahan, HSE South West Regional Director of Public Health, said: “Whether you’re attending the Kinsale Regatta Festival, the Castletownbere Festival of the Sea or staying local, I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable bank holiday weekend. Cork has some of the most beautiful beaches and forest walks in the country, and I encourage people to take care near the shoreline. Please also be mindful that alcohol can increase risks around water”

As many people will be attending festivals, coastal events, matches and other outdoor activities this weekend, HSE South West is asking the public to help keep access clear for ambulances, so our crews can reach patients without delay.

Rob Moriarty, General Manager, National Ambulance Service, HSE South West said:

“As we head into the August Bank Holiday weekend, we are asking everyone to enjoy the weekend safely and to please park responsibly, particularly in busy coastal, tourist and event locations. Illegally or poorly parked vehicles can delay emergency ambulances and other responders from reaching patients when every minute matters. Please ensure your Eircode is known or visible in case you need to call 112/999.

“The holiday period traditionally brings very high demand for ambulance services, and we ask the public to be mindful that we must always prioritise the most serious and life‑threatening incidents. To help ensure patients receive the right care in the right place, our Community Paramedic teams and our Advanced Paramedic Practitioner Car (APPCAR) service will be treating people with less urgent issues within their communities where possible, helping to avoid unnecessary Emergency Department attendances and supporting hospital capacity.”

Priscilla Lynch, HSE South West Manager for Cork South and West, said:

“Bank holiday weekends and extended good weather can result in higher numbers of people needing health services, so I would encourage everyone to consider all their healthcare options if they do become unwell, or injured. Our Injury Units are an excellent resource for urgent but non‑life‑threatening injuries. SouthDoc will also be available over the weekend, offering timely support and helping us keep Emergency Departments for those who need them most.”

Injury Units in Cork (open 8am–8pm)

Mercy Injury Unit, Gurranabraher at St Mary’s Health Campus — ages 10+

Mallow Injury Unit ages 5+

Bantry Injury Unit ages 5+

The Irish Life Health expresscare clinic is also available to treat minor injuries on the same terms as HSE Injury Units. It is open from 10am to 8pm for those aged 12 months and over.

Other options for non‑emergency healthcare this weekend include:

• Self-care - keep a well‑stocked medicine cabinet
• Your local pharmacist
• Your GP should fill routine prescriptions ahead of the weekend
• SouthDoc GP Out of Hours service on 0818 355 99