MSP raises worries over transparency

The report’s findings have been branded unacceptable by Fife MSP Alex Rowley.

He said he was concerned about many areas of governance and accountability and has written to NHS Fife chief executive Paul Hawkins demanding a response.

“I remain concerned the board is responsible for making savings/cuts of tens of millions of pounds and yet there seems to be little transparency around how this is to be done…” he said.

“There is also very little information in terms of the impact of any cuts on services and people.”

Mr Rowley also questioned how a predicted £4.2 million overspend in February was wiped out by the following month.

Trade unions have also expressed concern but not surprise at the report.

Speaking on behalf of Fife Trades Union Council and the Fife People’s Assembly, John Gillespie said he had requested a meeting with the Scottish Government to discuss the lack of clarity around NHS Fife’s savings plans.

“They discussed millions of pounds of savings at a public meeting but there was no information about how they would do it,” he said.

“It’s all smoke and mirrors and I’ve real concerns about accountability.

“Where was the public consultation? It’s disgraceful in this day and age.”

Alex Rowley.