The Minister for Health, Mary Harney, has said she is confident that a deal can be reached with health service workers to allow for the implementation of the Government's health reform plans.
Ms Harney also confirmed today that the chairman of the Health Service Executive, Kevin Kelly, is to act as the body's interim Chief Executive Officer from 1 January.
Mr Kelly's appointment follows the decision of Professor Aidan Halligan not to take up the post.
Following a meeting of the HSE this afternoon, Ms Harney paid tribute to Mr Kelly, saying he has done an extraordinary job with the HSE to date.
She said the HSE is working hard to ensure that the Government's health reform programme will be implemented to ensure a patient-centred health service.
Yesterday health service workers voted not to co-operate with the HSE because of fears over job security and conditions.
A spokesman for IMPACT said it would be possible to reach a negotiated settlement with the HSE. However, he said a change in approach from the HSE is needed.
