The Health Minister Dr James Reilly is insisting patient safety will not be compromised by budget overruns.
Dr Reilly yesterday revealed the HSE has already overspent by €158m after the first five months of the year.
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has also admitted that the Department of Health will need a bailout as a result.
However, Minister Reilly added the quality of care being provided by the HSE will not be affected.