Robert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Health if it is the case that no after-hours work or agency staffing has been authorised to support mental health services since the beginning of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7166/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The expenditure reductions necessary in 2012 will challenge all areas of the health system to provide continuity of services that are both appropriate and safe for patients. Like other care areas, efficiency and other savings will be required from the Mental Health Service. In this context, the HSE is seeking to reduce dependency on both overtime and agency staffing right across the health service. While some of these costs are still necessary, decisions on allowing these are based on need and within available resources at each area level.