TAOISEACH Brian Cowen, already facing challenges his recent predecessors only read about in history books, needs a Fianna Fáil revolt like a hole in the head.

The Minister for Health Mary Harney has said that major cutbacks are underway to prevent cost over-runs in the Health Service Executive.

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build private clinics on public hospital grounds could cost taxpayers more than €1 billion, Labour last night warned.

SINN FÉIN TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin launched a stinging attack on Health Minister Mary Harney, describing her as the “wrecking ball” of the health service.

FINE Gael leader Enda Kenny told the Dáil he had never expected Mary Harney to do the honourable thing and resign.

BRIEFINGS for incoming government ministers, in the wake of the general election, reveal fascinating insights into the reality behind controversial policies and promises by the coalition with the aim of wooing voters at the polls.

Relatives of former Leas Cross patients are to make a formal complaint about the Health Service Executive to the Minister for Health Mary Harney today.

THE number of people being treated on trolleys at accident and emergency departments in Cork University Hospital and Kerry General Hospital last month was more than double that for May 2005.

Evelyn Ring

THE State probe into the organ retention controversy has turned into a “monumental mess” that could politically damage the Government, a campaign group warned yesterday.

The current overcrowding crisis in A&E departments across the country needs a clear response from the health minister, it was claimed today.