Our Lady's Hospital for Children, Crumlin has confirmed that it is to close wards to meet its budget.
A spokesperson said that St Joseph's Ward is to close in ten days time and another ward may also close later in the summer.
Whether or not the wards will re-open will depend on funding next year.
The hospital has a funding shortfall of €9.6m.
In an attempt to balance the books, fewer patients will be treated at the hospital.
A spokesperson confirmed that there will be a 15% reduction in day cases and a 15% reduction in outpatient activity.
Seven new state-of-the-art theatres were opened at the hospital in June 2004 and it is understood that two of those theatres will be closed to operations this summer.
This evening, protestors at the hospital claimed the cutbacks will mean 7,000 less bed days for patients.
However, the hospital denies the reduction in bed days will be that high.
