Two investigations are underway after confidential patient files were found on a street in Drogheda.

The files were discovered by a local man out walking near Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, which says it takes the matter 'extremely seriously'.

It says all 44 patients affected will be met individually.

A letter of apology will also be issued outlining the steps being taken by the hospital.

In a statement, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Drogheda says it "takes this matter extremely seriously and is now undertaking an investigation".

"All RCSI Group hospitals, including Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Drogheda, have policies and procedures to ensure that patients are assured that their medical information is treated in confidence and not shared inappropriately".

The statement adds that the hospital has a mandatory staff policy on data protection and confidentiality, which all staff read and sign when starting work at the hospital.

Both the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Data Protection Commissioner are now investigating.

Local man Andrew told LMFM he found the files while out walking close to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital last Sunday.

LMFM presenter Michael Reade explains how this all came about - and what is in the files.