Health Service Enters Most Challenging Period

Challenges facing health and social care services in Northern Ireland have reached a peak, a health chief has warned.

"Something has to give," was the message of Richard Pengelly, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health, as he set out the increasing demands and ongoing budgetary constraints.

Growing waiting lists, a lack of confidence among the public and simmering frustration amongst the workforce are among the results of the stretched system, Mr Pengelly told while speaking at a Healthcare Financial Management Association event at the Dunadry Hotel.

"We are certainly in a defining period for health and social care in N Ireland. Budgets remain under intense pressure. At the same time, demand for care continues to grow.

"We simply don't have the money to do everything we are being asked to do."

Mr Pengelly called for change in the organisation of services to transform the agenda for both patients and staff.

He continued: "Change is never easy in health but it is essential. I have no doubt there will be many difficult decisions ahead both on reforming services and on budgetary choices.

"We can't duck those decisions. If we did, then we really will be heading over the cliff edge into a full-blown crisis."

The comments come as the Royal College of Nursing ballots members on a potential strike.



(JG/CM)