Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 October 2012
559. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he has instructed as part of cost cutting measures that he, the Health Service Executive and State agencies under his remit to use their own offices or facilities owned by the State to conduct meetings, hold press conferences, launches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41853/12]
View answerAs part of the overall cost cutting measures in my Department staff are encouraged to use the in house facilities provided for meetings, press conferences and launches. To this effect we have a dedicated facility suitable for the hosting of press conferences and launches. There are also a number of conference rooms suitable for large meetings. Teleconference/video conference facilities are also available.
In addition my Department utilises the facility of Government Buildings, Dublin Castle and Farmleigh which are of no cost to the Department.
In relation to the Non Commercial State Agencies under my Department's remit, responsibility for the day to day administration of these bodies lies with their governing Boards. The Boards and management teams are fully aware of the necessity to protect public funds and there are ongoing efforts to achieve savings and increase efficiencies through mechanisms such as the Public Service Agreement and through the rationalisation of agencies. The position regarding the Health Service Executive (HSE) is a matter for themselves. I have requested the HSE to reply directly to the Deputy in this regard.
