James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I have similar concerns and have asked the HSE to put in place a plan to examine possible areas of greatest impact caused by many taking early retirement due to the pension reductions that will apply after February 2012. The executive will also need to examine age profiles in certain health services to identify greater areas of entitlement to retire and the number of inquiries about retiring.

The Deputy is correct that the employment of agency staff is horrendously expensive and one which we seek to avoid at all costs. With a proper plan after the ongoing analysis, we will be able to accommodate for the likelihood of deficits in services in particular areas. I accept many health service staff with great experience may consider taking up early retirement. Perhaps when they reflect on where the country is at, they may stay on to help out and continue to serve this nation and its ongoing recovery.

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