It is indeed a pleasure to bring remarks today at the first (1st) Annual Nurses Conference.
When we think about a nurse, there are several things that comes to mind, but this particular meaning of the word nurse stands out to me- ‘’Nurse: just another word to describe a person strong enough to tolerate anything and soft enough to understand anyone’’
What a fitting theme that was chosen to celebrate this week- ‘Nurses: A Voice to lead- invest in Nursing and respect rights to secure global health.’
Today, as we celebrate National Nurses week, I along with those gathered here today wish to express our profound thanks to nurses all over the world, but especially to the nurses that care for our patients here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Last week, history was made in the Turks and Caicos! Last week, the launch of the Nursing Students Practicum for students completing their studies at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, shows our commitment not only to Education, but also to the field of nursing and our commitment to the advancement of our people. It was a proud moment for me, as I sat at that ceremony and saw seven (7) students, seven (7) enthused students sitting proud for the opportunity to complete their studies in nursing and also for the opportunity that our government through the different stakeholders were able to allow them to practice in our local facilities.
Nursing continues to be at the forefront, in 2019, the Ministry of Health established the Nursing and Midwifery Council which is responsible for the registration and licensing of nurses and midwives. This Council also has the powers to regulate nurses, establish and promote high standard of education and training and advise the Ministry of Health on appropriate matters concerning you, our nurses.
I take this opportunity to encourage others under the sound of my voice to become nurses. Our healthcare and its people need you. Nurses and other health care professionals are faced with the management and treatment of persons on a daily basis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw many being affected and our nurses were on the front line managing our patients with grace and humility. We salute you and say thank you, thank you for all you have done and all you continue to do.
I look forward to celebrating with you tomorrow at the Award Banquet as you are honored for all the work that you do. It is important that we honor and give people their roses while they are alive. I would like to declare this First (1st) Annual Nurses’ Week Conference now open.
God bless you all and God bless these Beautiful by Nature, Turks and Caicos Islands.
Thank you.
ENDS