The latest in a series of demonstrations to oppose any downgrading of hospital services in the west will take place in Ballinasloe, Co Galway, later today (Tuesday ).
The organisers of a planned lunchtime protest say they believe services at Portiuncula Hospital are under 'serious threat' arising from growing budget over-runs.
The Health Service Executive says there is 'absolutely no hidden plan' to downgrade the hospital.
Portiuncula is a 197-bed hospital serving east Galway and south Roscommon. It is faced with an end of year budget over-run of between €5m and €7m.
