Mr Nesbitt continued: “I sincerely regret that it was necessary to postpone planned appointments and to have patients conveyed by ambulance to other HSC facilities as a consequence.

“No appointments have been postponed on Friday, and there were no postponements of any appointments for adult community services during this period.”

The health minister said his department is supporting with additional support and resource where it is required.

In his update he added: “I can assure members that the SHSCT is working at pace to rebook all postponed appointments as quickly as possible, in line with clinical priorities.

“I appreciate the understanding and patience shown while this is worked through.”