The Health Minister Leo Varadkar, who returns to work today, is expected to comment on the issue of overcrowding in hospitals across the country.

Another statement is expected from the HSE later, as the problem reaches record levels.

As the number of people on trolleys and chairs in Emergency Departments reached over 600 today opposition parties have criticised the lack of a statement from Leo Varadkar.

Opposition politicians have been questioning the whereabouts of Varadkar, with Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams saying the Health Minister had "gone AWOL". Fiann Fáil health spokesperson Billy Kelleher has said "it is time for the government to act" and that Mr Varadkar needs to publicly comment on the situation.

“Hospital overcrowding is now a major crisis facing the State. There are more than 600 patients on trolleys," Mr Adams said.

“Meanwhile the Minister for Health appears to be AWOL. This is unacceptable. Minister Varadkar needs to surface and to address this developing crisis with urgency."

Members of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation are to ballot on industrial action over the crisis.

Dr Keith Swanick from the National Association of General Practitioners, Dr Keith Swanick, says doctors could help if given proper resources: