FF plans health service reforms

Fianna Fáil has claimed it will not rely on a range of tax hikes to reform the health service if it gains power after the next general election, saying a €320m hole in its annual investment plans will be funded by taking money from other government areas.

Health spokesman Billy Kelleher outlined the plan at the launch of the party’s health policy document yesterday.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Royal College of Physicians in Ireland, the Cork North Central TD announced plans for hospital doctors to work seven-day rosters, an increase in consultant salaries to keep them in this country and to retain the HSE.