Health Care

The health budget could be cut by up to at least 5% next year, which would achieve savings of  approximately €600m, according to reports in the national press this morning.




It is thought that frontline services will be hit, as pay costs which make up 70% of the Department of Health's budget are unlikely to be cut following the Croke Park deal.



However, the Sunday Business Post reports that the Government is hoping to make savings on overtime pay through greater flexibility in working arrangements, this however is more a pipe dream than a reality.



The Cabinet meeting taking place next Wednesday 21st July 2010, will discuss Departmental spending proposals for next year, as the Government starts formulating Budget 2011.