Chairperson and deputy chair appointed to Council
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Firstly, I would like to acknowledge those nurses and their whānau who have been affected by the recent cyclone and devastating floods, especially those who have experienced loss and hardship as a result.
Not only will some of you have been impacted personally, but nurses play a key role in caring for the community during disasters. Often this includes putting the needs of others ahead of your own wellbeing and safety. Our thanks to all of you who have been involved in the response and recovery. Kia kaha.
We have a full programme of work ahead of us this year, including continued consultation on the Enrolled Nurse scope of practice, education standards, and competencies, the review of Registered Nurse competencies, improving engagement with Māori nurses, and the implementation of a new competence assessment process for Internationally Qualified Nurses.
The Council’s Board leads us in the strategic direction and governance for this work, and we would like to welcome the re-election of Ngaira Harker and Marion Guy as the Board Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson; both having extensive experience in the nursing sector. You can find out more about Ngaira and Marion here.
The Board is made up of members elected by nurses and
those appointed by the Minister of Health. The Ministry of Health is currently advertising
for two Board members: one professional member and one lay member.
It is vitally important for nurses to be actively involved to help drive the development of nursing regulation, to support the safest and best care to the public. I would encourage you to apply if you would like to assist in developing and upholding the excellent standards nurses in Aotearoa are known for.
Ngā mihi nui,
Catherine Byrne,
Pouārahi/Pouroki - Chief Executive/Registrar