The Mater Hospital in Dublin is experiencing a significant IT issue that prevents access to patients' electronic health records, prompting an appeal to the public to avoid its emergency department (ED) unless urgent care is needed. Patients with non-urgent conditions may face lengthy waiting times, and the hospital advises seeking care from GPs or other health services instead. The Rapid Injury Clinic in Smithfield has also been closed due to the ongoing systems problem. Despite these issues, the hospital reassures that those requiring emergency care will still be attended to promptly. Outpatient appointments remain unaffected, and the hospital is working to rectify the situation as soon as possible. The Mater has apologized for any inconvenience caused to patients and the public.