Reilly denies actions were ‘improper’

Health Minister James Reilly has denied there being anything “improper” in his decision to add two locations in his constituency to a list of potential designations for primary care centres.

Tensions between Dr Reilly and junior minister Roisín Shortall deteriorated yesterday after she said it was a question for him as to why the additions were made.

Ms Shortall has responsibility for primary care at the department, but Dr Reilly, as the senior minister, has the final say.