Streamlining HSE chaplaincy spend could yield savings

The HSE could make huge savings if it streamlined payments made to priests providing chaplaincy services across its acute hospital network in the West.

The suggestion came from HSE West Forum member Cllr Brian Meaney after HSE figures revealed huge disparity in what its pays its chaplains.

A Freedom of Information request showed the executive paid over €1m last year and a further €1m in 2010 to priests and others providing chaplaincy and pastoral services in its acute hospital and community care network, stretching from Donegal to Limerick.