21 hospital assaults to date in 2022

Cavan-Monaghan had the lowest number of hospital attacks recorded with 21 so far this year. That's despite an increase of such incidents in hospitals across the country.

A total of 1,052 incidents were reported to gardaí across Ireland in 2022 compared to 862 last year - an increase of 190.

The highest number of hospital attacks was recorded in Dublin South Central, followed by 90 at Dublin North Central, and 70 in Limerick.

The vast majority of cases concern physical attacks or abuse directed at nurses, doctors, porters and security staff.

Acting Justice Minister Heather Humphreys confirmed that 4,862 criminal incidents were recorded in hospitals in Ireland over the last five years.