The HSE has set up an independent investigation on information being provided by the Crisis Pregnancy Counselling service.

The probe will look into allegations that inappropriate advice on crisis pregnancies was given to women attending the service.

HSE Director General designate Tony O'Brien told the Oireachtas Health Committee that the health executive had carried out an internal review on the matter and as a result had established an investigation to be chaired by Bridget McManus, former Secretary General of the Department of Education.

He said the terms of reference were bing finalised with the chairperson and he expected the investigation would be concluded as quickly as possible.

It has been alleged that some counsellors attached to the service advised women to hide their abortions from their doctors.

Meanwhile, Minister of State at the Department of Health Alex White told the Committee that legislation to give effect to the first phase of the roll-out of free GP care was at an advanced stage of preparation.

The roll-out of the first phase, which was originally scheduled for March of this year, will provide free GP treatment to those on the long term illness scheme.

The Committee was told an extra 144,540 people had been issued with a medical card since December last.

The meeting was also told the HSE would receive €125 million in a once-off advance payment from health insurers this year, and €116 would be saved in branded drug costs next year as a result of the recent agreement with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association.

In addition, agremeent has also been reached on savings with generic drug manufacturers.