§ Mr.ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she has approved the Financial Recovery Plan proposed by the Eastern Health and Social Services Board; and if she will make a statement. [82552]
§ Mr. McFallA detailed recovery plan has yet to be submitted to the Health and Social Services Executive by the Eastern Health and Social Services Board, since the final outturn position of the Board for 1998–99 has still to be confirmed. The recovery strategy proposed by the Board468W suggests that it should recover its deficit over the two year period of 1999–2000 and 2000–01. The Executive will consider, approve and monitor the implementation of a Financial Recovery Plan once the deficit has been accurately established. Current estimates are that the deficit will represent approximately 1 per cent. of the Board's annual expenditure.