The HSE's Winter Plan has been met with a mixed reaction from politicians and those working in healthcare. The Winter Plan, published today, promises 251 extra hospital beds this year plus 232 early next year.
Under the 30-page plan, approved by the Department of Health, most of the extra €600m in funding is to be provided next year - €200m will be spent this year and €400m next year.
The plan covers the period from now up to April 2021. The Labour Party leader questioned details in the plan in the Dáil this afternoon.
Alan Kelly said the plan has announced 1,500 new beds; but breaking down figures he said 409 of the 830 acute beds are already in place; 45 of the 63 new critical care beds are in place while 395 of the 484 sub-acute beds