I propose to take Questions Nos. 267, 268 and 270 together.
My Department sets the overall funding level for specific service areas, and then the HSE prioritises funding within that allocation based on operational need. Should the HSE wish to provide financial assistance to a charity or not for profit organisation for the provision of services similar or supplementary to a service that the HSE may provide, it is entitled to do so. Section 39 of the Health Act 2004 allows the HSE to provide such financial assistance to organisations by means of a grant.
It is a matter for the HSE as to how they engage with such organisations.