WHB and Dept of Health set for showdown

A showdown between the Western Health board and the Department of Health is expected later today on the issue of job cuts.

Officials from the WHB are expected to be questioned as to why they decided to axe 200 jobs, when just 85 cuts were required by the Department.

The Department of Health and Minister Michael Martin have asked officials to explain the move urgently.

These officials, including CEO, Shiela Ryan, are to meet with Department representatives this afternoon.

They are expected to be criticised for hiring temporary administrators last year without sanction prompting the widespread job cuts now.