Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health the likely impact of the cuts in numbers of staff in services for older persons, mental health and disability revealed in the recent Health Service Executive regional service plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13850/13]

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health his assessment of the impact of the cuts in numbers of staff in services for older persons, mental health and disability announced in the recent Health Service Executive regional service plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13842/13]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 39 and 44 together.

Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive must prepare a service plan and submit it to the Minister for Health following publication of the Estimates. The National Service Plan which was submitted to Minister Reilly in December sets out the quantum and type of health services to be provided in 2013 within the overall level of funding provided. In accordance with the Act Minister Reilly approved the National Service Plan and laid a copy of the plan before both Houses of the Oireachtas on 9th January this year. Subsequently, the Executive prepared and published its Operational Plan and Regional Service Plans which underpin the National Service Plan. The HSE has responsibility for the delivery of services set out in these Regional Plans and to ensure that services are delivered within budget.

The Director General Designate of the HSE, Tony O'Brien, has provided full briefing on the Regional Service Plans to the Regional Fora.