Health Minister James Reilly has confirmed that the HSE will get supplementary funding of €199 million subject to Government approval.

According to Dr Reilly, a budget overrun of approximately 1.5% was a 'great result' in the context of increased activity of 2% in the health services is year this year despite a smaller number of staff.

The HSE received a €360 million bail-out last year.

Meanwhile, Minister Reilly has been criticised for cancelling a planned appearance at the Oireachtas Health Committee tomorrow.

Fianna Fail Health Spokesman Billy Kelleher said it was hard to interpret this as anything other than as a clear sign that yet again the Minister was 'playing for time' because he knew the extent of the health cuts being planned for next year cannot realistically be met. 

"If Minister Reilly pushes ahead with the €666m in cuts there will be a severe impact on frontline services, including vital services for children and older people."

The HSE's service plan, outlining spending plans and cuts for next year, is currently being considered by the Minister.