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

The Minister has referred to the years 2007 and 2011, in order to support his argument. Taking the base year of 2007, there has been a pro ratalarger increase of senior management compared with the recruitment of front line staff. As the Minister is aware, commitments were made by this Government to protect front-line staff and that the numbers would be increased where such was needed. It is evident that there is pressure on all of the major front-line services, such as accident and emergency departments, maternity and theatre services. In view of the fact that the HSE's funding has decreased, one would think that priority should be given to the recruitment of front-line staff.

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