Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2012
214. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the details of his proposed pay related savings of €308 million in 2013; the way this saving will be achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55698/12]
View answerThe Government is committed to maximizing the savings under the Public Service Agreement (PSA). To date, there have already been very significant efficiencies and savings achieved under PSA in the Health Sector. A total of €308 million in pay-related savings has been targeted for the health services in 2013. These savings will be achieved under three separate headings, firstly by intensifying the implementation of the Public Service Agreement within the health services, secondly through the negotiation of an agreement on further workplace change and savings with public sector unions, as has been proposed by Government, and thirdly through further reductions in staffing numbers in 2013.
Required measures under the PSA include new rosters in hospitals, changes in skill mix in nursing homes, the implementation of the recent agreement reached with Hospital Consultants, a significant reduction in overtime and agency spending and a reduction in management grades. Pay savings are also targeted from the reconfiguration of service models in hospitals, disability, mental health and children and family services.
The Government has initiated discussions with the Trade Unions on a new agenda for improvements in the productivity of public servants and reductions in the cost of delivery of public services. Detailed engagement is expected to commence early in 2013, under the leadership of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
