Following a meeting with the Fire and Rescue Service all adult outpatient clinics, X Rays , scans and operations at the Royal Victoria Hospital have been cancelled for the day., with the exception of cardiac surgery, burns and plastic surgery.

Procedures at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the Royal Jubilee Maternity Service and Dental Hospital are not affected.

Medical Director Dr. Tony Stevens thanked staff and appealed to the public for their patience and understanding as the Trust continues to work with the Fire and Rescue Service to ensure everyone’s safety.

“Patients with an appointment at the main Royal Victoria Hospital should assume that their procedure has been cancelled unless they receive a call from the hospital advising otherwise.

“We expect all services to be back to normal tomorrow and all missed appointments to be rescheduled as soon as possible”, Dr Stevens said.

A Freephone information helpline for patients and relatives has been set up. The number is 0800 980 1100.