Minister Canney Welcomes Strengthened Oversight and Accountability in HSE through New Health (Amendment) Bill
Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the Government’s approval of the Health (Amendment) Bill 2025, describing it as a critical step in enhancing transparency and performance within Ireland’s health system.
The Bill, which was brought to Cabinet by the Minister for Health, aims to significantly strengthen governance structures within the HSE. It introduces key reforms including new obligations on the CEO of the HSE, a strengthened role for Ministers in setting priorities, and enhanced accountability mechanisms across both health services and specialist community-based disability services.
“I welcome this important bill, which will improve the delivery of healthcare and ensure clearer accountability within the HSE,” Minister Canney said. “It is essential that we empower Ministers to set clear national priorities, and that the HSE responds accordingly. This Bill strikes that balance — maintaining operational independence while ensuring robust oversight.”
Among the key provisions are:
Annual Strategic Direction Statements: The Minister for Health and the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality will set out health service priorities to guide the HSE’s 3-year Corporate Plan.
Performance Delivery Plan: Replacing the annual Service Plan, this new mechanism will help set clear targets and expectations for the year ahead.
Corrective Action Proposals: Where there is a risk of overspending, the CEO must present a response plan for approval, ensuring early intervention and financial discipline.
Board Governance: The Bill also makes technical amendments to the National Cancer Registry Board to ensure proper governance structures are maintained.
Minister Canney concluded: “This Bill will strengthen public confidence in how our health system is managed and ensure that resources are better aligned to patient needs and national priorities.”