James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 176: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programme recommendation that staff should be required to work the weekly basic contracted hours for their grade within the span of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on a five day over seven day basis; the estimated savings from same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41234/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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Consideration of the report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes, and decisions on all of issues arising, are ultimately matters for the Government. The recommendations contained in the report are being considered as part of the Estimates and budgetary process for 2010. The Deputy will be aware that talks have taken place at a national level with the trade unions, including those representing health sector employees, about the range of options available to achieve an overall reduction of €1.3 billion in public sector pay in 2010. The Government is seeking significant reforms in the way the public sector does its business. In the health sector, this would include extending the span of the working day. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage, pending the outcome of these deliberative processes.