Hospital co-location - Paper shows questions remain

BRIEFINGS for incoming government ministers, in the wake of the general election, reveal fascinating insights into the reality behind controversial policies and promises by the coalition with the aim of wooing voters at the polls.

By far the most revealing briefing paper yet to come to light following the recent election is from the Department of Finance. Drawn up to bring incumbent Minister Brian Cowen up to speed on a wide range of issues, its observations effectively touch upon the affairs of virtually every other department.

In a controversial twist, the most powerful government department, which holds a tight rein on the strings of the public purse, introduces a distinct note of uncertainty into the debate surrounding the vexed issue of hospital co-location.