Since commencing my role as regional representative for the CHO5 area with the PNA in October 2021 I have helped support and assist members with many varied issues. CHO5 area covers Kilkenny, Carlow, Waterford, Wexford, and South Tipperary. Like other CHO areas in recent years the amalgamation of Approved Centre's with the roll out of more community-based services has led to more dispersed staff work locations. Combined with this, staff movement and retirements, some PNA branches had become dormant.
It was with great support from Niall O Sullivan, Industrial Relations Officer and Sandra Forristal, National Secretary, who are on the Rules and Organization committee of the PNA. Most importantly the local membership involvement that we were able to reestablish two branches in the CHO5 area. The Carlow branch and the Deise branch, Dungarvan Co. Waterford. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the new Branch Officials and committee members and wish them well in their new roles. They have already availed of the two-Branch Officer training programmes provided this year. Carlow Branch attended the Athlone Training earlier in the year and Deise attended the recent training in Cork.
Regional reps are committed in dealing with personal issues for members with the assistance of Industrial Relations Officers covering each CHO area as an integral part of our structures. The importance of a local branch cannot be understated as this provides a strong basis for local service developments and continuing quality care. The PNA are also committed to the Continuing Professional Development of its members. In this regard and with the forward vision of Aisling Culhane, Research and Development Officer who in collaboration with the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery RCSI have provided the many webinars and CPD programs through the PNA/College of Professional Development.
The PNA prides itself on “ground up” member involvement as each branch has its own autonomy. It is local members in each area who know their service needs and requirements. Engaging locally with other stakeholders, senior management and services management to maintain and promote nursing developments in the service -thus, ensuring high quality nursing provision. It is in this regard that the support from Regional Reps and Industrial Relations Officers working with local branch officials can be best utilised.
In summary I would encourage members in any area where branches have become dormant to contact the Regional Rep in their area or contact Paula or Elayne in head office. With the help of Rules and Organization Committee to reform the branch structure which is the life blood of the PNA.
