South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw said the growing talk of health receiving anything up to £40 million next month could be confirmed by the Civil Service and Secretary of State, alleviating some of the worries of staff and patients in the sector after it was announced £70 million of cuts needed to be made by the various health trusts here.
“The current consultation process on the proposed cuts is turning into a confrontational process and causing major anxiety for staff, patients and their loved ones,” she said.
“There are increasing indications from a number of sources about the potential for additional money being made available soon, including from a de facto October monitoring round, which may ease the pressure somewhat on the current financial situation.
“If that is the case, it is incumbent on the Civil Service, in conjunction with the Secretary of State, to give clarity immediately on when that is likely to happen, in order to alleviate the fears and apprehension people are undergoing.
“Alliance recognises there are major issues around the sustainability of the current financial model of the health service and we acknowledge major reform is needed to avoid this type of financial crisis occurring year after year. But if there is the potential for the lessening of pressure for this financial year, it is important clarification is received as soon as possible.”