The operation of the health service budget for 2024 is, as is the case with every departmental budget, a matter for the Minister for Health and his Department. It is the responsibility of that Department to decide how it allocates funding of €22.5 billion to respond to the many legitimate demands and needs our health service faces at the moment. It is important to note that since 2019, this Government has prioritised very significant and unprecedented investment in the health service. As a result, Ireland continues to spend more of its national income on health than the majority of European countries.
This investment has delivered an increase in staff of over 22,000, which will bring the total numbers employed in the health service to approximately 143,745 by the end of this year with, as I have noted, funding of €22.5 billion.
Overall, a strong level of funding is in place for our health service. Funding has increased by €7.4 billion from 2019 to 2024. With regard to Sláintecare, which is referenced in the written question the Deputy put to me, my understanding from the Minister for Health is that the programme board is making good progress towards the next implementation framework. I also understand that the board and the Sláintecare programme management office are working together to identify further measures that can be taken from 2024 to 2027. My officials will engage with the Department of Health on future Estimates processes to consider the phases of reform under Sláintecare.
With regard to budget preparations, there was extensive engagement with the Department of Health in determining the budget 2024 allocation. I have had continuous contact with the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, in the run-up to the budget and in its aftermath. The Deputy asked me whether I have had engagement with the HSE's chief executive. I have not had such engagement since the budget was announced.
