HSE boss ‘can keep €160k over-payment’

The acting head of the HSE has been overpaid more than €160,000 since 2006.

Despite the blunder — which if addressed would mean 492 families could be spared the controversial respite carers’ cut — he will be allowed keep the money.

The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Department of Health have confirmed HSE director designate Tony O’Brien was paid the extra funds in breach of Government rules. Correspondence between both departments said the issue was not the fault of Mr O’Brien, who was described as “an exemplary public servant”.