‘Services protected’ despite HSE debt

Funds allocated for mental health and primary care services will not be raided to cut HSE overspend, the Government has pledged.

Public Sector Reform Minister Brendan Howlin expressed concern that the HSE budget could go some €500m into the red this year, but key policy areas would be protected.

Mr Howlin insisted that all allowances in the State sector would be reviewed in light of recent controversies.