Agencies to face HSE chief over top-ups

All health bodies giving top-ups to senior officials will be hauled before the head of the HSE between now and Christmas to explain how they will “immediately” end the ‘second salaries’ culture.

Health Minister James Reilly confirmed the move last night as a spokesperson warned he will take “whatever actions are necessary” to stop the extra payments in their tracks.

The department said Dr Reilly and HSE director general Tony O’Brien met yesterday to clarify what — if any — progress has been made.