Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 September 2008
601 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that the orthopaedic unit at Our Lady’s Hospital Navan, which serves the entire northeast region remains fully operational and is not closed for any period to make savings at the cost of patient care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31180/08]
View answerThe Health Service Executive (HSE) has advised that it has been reviewing the need for cost containment measures between now and year end to ensure that expenditure across the Louth/Meath Hospital group, including Our Lady's Hospital, Navan is managed within the approved budget. Any necessary measures will be discussed with staff and staff associations. The HSE has indicated that savings will need to be achieved in a number of areas including overtime, on call, agency and locum costs. This may involve some reduction in elective activity.
