The Health Service Executive spent over €7 million on renting premises in the HSE western region counties of Mayo, Roscommon and Galway in 2007 and 2008.
In a week when controversy has arisen over the bonus paid to the Chief Executive Officer Prof Brendan Drumm, this latest revelation is certain to create further shockwaves at time when the public perception of the HSE is at an all time low.
According to Deputy John O’Mahony, the €7 million being paid in rent could be better spent in ensuring the continuation of the provision of front line services. “I’m sure this news will cause a lot of consternation among people who have seen family members spend time on trolleys in hospital or have had operations cancelled. There are countless support agencies seeking better services for their members but they are constantly being told that no money is available.
“I know that the HSE must rent some premises to allow it provide services but €7 million in two years seems to me to be an incredible amount of money to be paying out and I’m now calling for an immediate review of the policy,” he said.
