Health Minister reviews proposed budget cuts

31 July 2009

During the last week I have listened carefully to responses from people who have been expressing their deep concern and great anxiety over the propos​​ed cuts in the Health and Social Services budget. These proposals were made following advice given by the department and after many months of careful deliberation. But it has become increasingly clear that they would considerably affect the lives of people, especially the elderly and more vulnerable in the community.

I have therefore decided, after much consideration, to retain the grants to Maison Allo and Brook, and that Grands Vaux Family Centre will not close. The Patient Transport Service will also continue on a fully funded basis. We will, though, investigate ways of making the service more cost effective.

I will, along with the Chief Minister and senior staff from my department, continue to review the savings proposals. We will be examining all aspects of the proposed cuts in the coming weeks, and we will be investigating other ways to find the required savings.

And we must also realise that these savings are being made in order to maintain front line services. We need to invest in the increasing cost of medical services, in essential emergency services and in our nursing staff, if we are to sustain a safe and effective health service.