The Government has determined that, in line with its commitment to reduce the size of the public service, health sector employment numbers must be reduced to approximately 102,000 by the end of 2012.
The HSE has some flexibility in relation to filling posts in order to protect frontline services in so far as possible while still achieving the required targets. In addition, the National Service Plan 2012 provides for steps to minimise the effect of staffing reductions on services. These include pursuing to the maximum the flexibility and reform agenda provided for in the Public Service Agreement.
As the numbers employed in the relevant grades is a service matter, the Parliamentary Question has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.