Ahern says consultants ‘overused’ on project

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern yesterday insisted the controversial health service payroll system was not “a waste of time”, but admitted consultants had been “overused” on the project.

The estimated bill for consultants on the PPARS project is €70 million, approximately €50m of which is going to Deloitte & Touche.

Mr Ahern said: “I believe [those overseeing the project] overused outside consultants and should not have a consultancy contract to the extent they had. Regarding the excessive costs to Deloitte & Touche, another way should be found and it should be re-assessed.”