It comes as the hospital is in it's 15th day of restrictions.
The South/South West Hospital Group, of which Bantry General Hospital is part, says it was necessary to close to new admissions because of staff shortages at the hospital's Acute Medical Assessment Unit.
It told RedFM that the staffing shortages arose because of unexpected issues in the recruitment of a permanent consultant, and also because of recent unexpected sick leave.
The Group says the issues in Bantry are short-term and will be resolved in the coming weeks.
However, the Industrial Relations Officer for the INMO, Liam Conway told RedFM News that it is essential more consultants and nurses are recruited so services in the hospital can be maintained:
"What's absolutely crucial is that significant investment continues to be implemented into Bantry General Hospital. But also, as well, that services are maintained, but also that additional recruitment is put in place in terms of consultant posts which are key posts to maintain this service, including out-of-hours cover, and also as well in terms of nursing as well. Particularly in terms of nurse-led services, additional investment in Advanced Nurse Practitioners, is definitely a pathway that should be examined by the HSE going forward as well in Bantry."
