John Browne
Question:38 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Health the action, if any, he proposes to take to relieve pressure on health boards in tight budgetary positions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Health Board Funding.
The allocation of funds to each health board in respect of 1993 should be sufficient to continue the provision of services at 1992 approved levels, provided the measures identified in respect of pay, non-pay and income efficiencies are fully achieved. My Department is in constant communication with all boards regarding service provision and budgetary matters and is closely monitoring the expenditure savings targets that have been set for each board. The effects of these efficiencies are already being realised but it is too early to indicate the full year impact of these savings.
In my meetings with health boards earlier this year, I outlined Government policy in relation to containing public expenditure and the absolute necessity for boards to maintain expenditure within the approved limits. Boards cannot anticipate additional funding for health services in 1993 over that already approved by Government, with the exception of demand-led scheme funding.