Reports stated the plans include prefab units for 200 people at the former Columb Military Barracks in Mullingar and space for 400 people at a site in Athlone according to the Irish Independent.

The new beds are part of the national Acute Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion plan which will bring 3,352 new beds according to the Minister for Health.

Simon Harris met with families affected by the crisis in the south Roscommon area in recent weeks.

County planners refused the planning permission citing issues with car parking requirements and the lack of existing tourism accommodation.

According to the Irish Independent the plans include prefab units for 200 people at a former military barracks in Mullingar and space for 400 at a site in Athlone.

The structure would carry antennae, dishes, remote radio units and associated equipment for provision of wireless data and broadband services.

Minister Heather Humphries has said that it was unclear to her how it could be proven with reasonable certainty that an applicant had contracted Covid at work.

The junction has been the scene of a number of accidents in recent years.