The Department of Health and Social Security is quashing rumours the minister has ordered a 10% cut in its budget.

A statement says when he took up the position last year, Eddie Teare (pictured) wanted to know what the implications would be if funding had to be reduced by that amount.

Mr Teare says the move was to enable him to 'gain a better understanding of the issues and options facing the department.'

However, he adds that no decision was, or has been made to implement any cuts and he has asked staff work within existing budgets.