Cowen: Croker deal key to health reforms

Taoiseach Brian Cowen today said the Croke Park agreement is the best way to get the reforms necessary in the health service.

Mr Cowen offered assurances he is still backing to the deal, despite calls to invoke a re-negotiation clause because of the worsening economic situation.

It means that further public sector pay cuts are not on the agenda in December's Budget.

Mr Cowen today told the Dáil the Croke Park deal can get the savings needed, while at the same time protecting frontline services.