Harney defends €1bn budget healthcuts and downgrading of hospitals

HEALTH Minister Mary Harney has insisted plans to impose deep cuts on frontline services in the upcoming budget will not “cripple” the system, despite the fact health funding is set to be reduced by at least €1 billion.

Speaking at the annual general meeting of the Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) in Adare, Co Limerick, the senior cabinet member defended the imminent cuts and her controversial hospital reconfiguration plans.

Ms Harney said the country’s economic crisis means it is impossible to avoid cutbacks.