Talks continue on HSE West cuts

Talks aimed at resolving the conflict between HSE management and trade unions are entering into their sixth hour at Merlin Park Hospital in Galway.

The meeting between around 20 group representatives started just after 11.30am this morning, under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission.

According to trade unions, the HSE West - which covers hospitals from Donegal to Limerick - has been instructed to save at least €68m off their budget over the next four months.

It is feared these cuts will lead to 1,000 job losses, including an estimated 183 in Galway city alone.