HSE Regional Service Plans

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2013

Wednesday, 20 March 2013

Questions (109)

John McGuinness

Question:

109. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health the way the recently published Health Service Executive regional plans will help older persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13864/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive must prepare a service plan and submit it to the Minister for Health following publication of the Estimates. The National Service Plan which was submitted to Minister Reilly in December sets out the quantum and type of health services to be provided in 2013 within the overall level of funding provided.

In accordance with the Act Minister Reilly approved the National Service Plan and laid a copy of the plan before both Houses of the Oireachtas on 9 January this year. Subsequently, the Executive prepared and published its Operational Plan and Regional Service Plans which underpin the National Service Plan. The HSE has responsibility for the delivery of services set out in these Regional Plans and to ensure that services are delivered within budget.

The Director General Designate of the HSE, Tony O'Brien, has provided full briefing on the Regional Service Plans to the Regional Fora.