Vol. 458 No. 2
87 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health the amount of reduction in public spending in his Department as a result of the Government decision announced by the Minister for Finance on 8 June 1995; the number of new posts established since that date in his Department and agencies under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16811/95]
Limerick East): The Government decision announced on 8 June outlined the Government's targets in relation to growth in public expenditure in 1996 and decided that there would be no further recruitment to posts, paid for out of public funds, which would have the effect of increasing the number of posts above the number in place on 9 June, except where the Government agreed to such recruitment, in particular areas. In view of the Government's commitments with regard to poverty and groups with special needs, as set out in the policy document A Government of Renewal, it agreed to approve the establishment of an additional 1,200 posts in 1995 for the health services. The decision was taken in the context of the need to maintain existing services and further develop services in certain critical areas. To the extent that the numbers approved are less than the original numbers sought at the beginning of the year, the decision will have the effect of reducing the additional costs in 1996, of developments initiated this year. With regard to 1995, I have already stated that there will be no reduction in the approved level of expenditure for any agency, under my Department's aegis. In relation to expenditure in 1996, discussions are continuing with regard to the Health Estimate, which I expect will be concluded shortly.
