Harney promises significant increase in health funding

The Tánaiste and Health Minister Mary Harney has promised that tomorrow's budget estimates will contain a significant increase in health funding.

Asked about the matter in Dublin today, Ms Harney said: "We've been increasing funding in Ireland at close to 10% since 1997. I see no reason why that will discontinue."

However, she refused to reveal whether problem areas like accident and emergency wards would receive a financial boost.