asked the Minister for Health the expected deficit in relation to money allocated to the South-Eastern Health Board; its expected spending requirements for the current year; the way in which it is expected that the health board will make up the deficit; if it is likely that the deficit will lead to cutbacks in services in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - South-Eastern Health Board Expenditure.
141.
I have approved of spending levels for health boards and other health agencies for 1986 to the maximum extent possible within the resources at my disposal. In accordance with section 31 of the Health Act, 1970, health boards have a statutory obligation to avoid exceeding the approved spending level.
The South-Eastern Health Board's decisions in relation to the 1986 budgetary arrangements included an objective not to exceed their 1986 budget allocation of £96.54 million. The measures which have been approved by the board towards the realisation of the targetted reductions include reductions in payroll costs including reductions in locum costs and payroll extras, and in travelling expenses and energy costs. It is understood that further measures to achieve cost reductions are being considered.
I am satisfied that the resources at the health board's disposal are sufficient to enable essential services to be maintained.