£9k spent on tea, buns, etc

Health Minister Edwin Poots revealed the hospitality spend in 2011/12 in response to a query from Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) MLA Jim Allister.

The Southern Trust spent £44k; the South Eastern Trust spent £17.4; the Northern Trust spent £12.5; and the Belfast Trust spent £10k.

Mr Poots stated: “All organisations across the Health and Social Care have comprehensive policies and procedures in respect of hospitality, which outline the eligibility and entitlement to hospitality.

“Due to the wide ranging operational nature of the Department’s Arms Length Bodies, hospitality may also include expenditure other than that associated with the provision of refreshments, for example room and/or equipment hire.”