Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When one breaks down the regional service plan, specifically in respect of the number of whole-time equivalent staff in services for older people and mental health and disability services, one finds that a significant reduction in staff numbers is envisaged. For example, in HSE west, HSE south, HSE Dublin-midlands and HSE Dublin north east, the number of whole-time equivalent staff is expected to fall by 267, 382, 446 and 277, respectively, giving a total reduction in whole-time equivalent staff of 1,372. Given that staff are under serious pressure as matters stand, does the Minister agree that further reductions in staff will result in a reduction in services? The Minister's view that fewer staff can continue to provide more care is not sustainable because one reaches a breaking or tipping point at some stage. It is evident that it will not be possible to sustain the level of service required in services for older people and mental health and disability services with the reduced number of staff envisaged in the regional service plans.

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