Freeze on 'non-essential' recruitment

Health Department measure to cut costs

The Department of Health and Social Care has announced an immediate freeze on recruitment of staff in 'non-essential' roles.

Officials say only vacancies critical to frontline services will be offered for the foreseeable future.

It's been described as a temporary measure, whilst the Department looks to stay within its £200 million pound budget, and avoid requesting further funding from Tynwald.    

During the last two years the Health service has needed extra cash, totalling £20 million pounds.

Despite the measure, on-going recruitment exercises will be completed.

Minister Kate Beecroft says introducing the freeze was difficult decision, but 'immediate action' was needed to address the Department's budgetary challenges.

She insists there'll be minimal impact on critical services.