Gardaí are investigating claims of a sexual assault against an 87-year-old woman in South Tipperary Hospital.

The woman was on an all-male ward at the hospital when the incident took place.

The male patient about whom the allegation was made is being monitored by security staff.

He has been approved for long-term care - but the Health Service (HSE) is waiting for an appropriate place to become available for him.

Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin confirmed to the Dáil the matter is under investigation.