HSSD attacks editor

HEALTH and Social Services launched an unprecedented attack on the Guernsey Press editor this morning.

Both minister Hunter Adam and chief officer David Hughes have responded strongly to Friday’s Opinion column criticising the department for failing to make economies.

Health has warned of an overspend of up to £8m. next year.

‘The HSSD has informed islanders that it will not be possible to maintain existing services with its current budget and workforce; unless the editor can a) stop the population ageing, b) stop medical inflation and c) stop medical and technological advances, then additional resources are inevitable if we are to continue to provide the Bailiwick with high standard “up-to-date’ services”,’ said Mr Hughes.

The editorial questioned whether 242 clerks and pen pushers were needed at the department.

But Mr Hughes said: ‘This would mean no-one to organise services, no receptionists, no-one to answer the telephone - and so professional staff would have to spend time on this administrative work, rather than being dedicated to front line work.’

Deputy Adam said: ‘It might be helpful If I took Mr [Richard] Digard on a conducted tour, to explain their work in layman’s terms and show him the value of these groups of staff.’

He also dismissed a suggestion that privatisation or outsourcing services would reduce costs. (from thisisguernsey)

Looks like the Press have touched a raw nerve..