I want to sign off 2019 with a big thank you to everyone who has supported me in my first few months at the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). The best jobs in my view give you an opportunity to work with smart, passionate people. They also deliver opportunities, challenges and a scope to do better. I am delighted to say that from sessions with my team, my review of our operations and in my initial visits to our partners and peers in the sector I have not been disappointed. I am truly excited about the positive impact that we can make, together, during 2020.

Our strategic plan for the period 2020-2022 has been prepared and will provide us with a clear direction as the Regulator for the nursing and midwifery professions in Ireland. We will remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting patients and other members of the public by supporting our talented, caring and impactful registered nurses and midwives. Also, in our capacity as Regulator, we will work proactively - as a leader and partner - to support the highest standard of care in Ireland. As we do this, I look forward to extending our outreach further and meeting more of you.

One practical piece of business that I want to bring to your attention is the December 31 deadline for the payment of your annual registration fee. I would encourage you to read the overview below and note in particular the methods of payment.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our registered nurses and midwives, and our partners in education, business and government a well deserved, and very Merry Christmas and New Year.

Sheila McClelland