WHB defers lay-off plans

The Western Health Board has apparently deferred plans to lay off 169 workers as part of cutbacks ordered by the Government.

SIPTU, which represents some of the staff, said it has received assurances that they will not be let go this Friday, as was originally planned.

In addition, it said ward clerks at University Hospital Galway who were partially affected by the proposed cuts will now be offered extensions to their contracts.

The union said it will continue its efforts in the next two weeks to provide further security for temporary staff employed by the WHB.