As 2021 draws to a close, I would like to acknowledge the challenges faced by nurses and midwives. Throughout the year, our registrants have shown resilience and acted in the best interests of patients while upholding the standards and integrity of the professions.

A year ago I remember writing my Christmas message at a time when vaccines had just been developed and approved and we were looking forward with so much hope to the new year of 2021.

The 2022 annual registration renewal continues and to date 35,000 registrants have completed the process.

The renewal window opened on 25 October 2021 and will remain open until Monday, 31 January 2022. While the deadline is next month, we encourage registrants to login and renew as soon as possible.

NMBI is inviting calls for expressions of interest from registered practising midwives to fill a vacancy on the Fitness to Practise Committee. The successful applicant must be currently engaged in clinical midwifery practice.

The Board of NMBI has made decisions as to findings and sanctions arising from two complaints received.

The findings are published in full on NMBI's Findings and Decisions page.

Due to the continuing growth of the Registration Department of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI), we are holding a competition for a number of newly created positions.

The HSE National Immunisation Office has published its Covid-19 vaccination bulletin which includes important updates in clinical guidance for the vaccination programme.

A round up of the latest news stories relating to nursing and midwifery. This month’s issue includes:

• DCU Alumni award for former NMBI Director, Dr Anne-Marie Ryan
• Advisory issued for midwives
• Leitrim nurse volunteers at CRY
• Minister Donnelly announces €10 million funding for palliative and end-of-life care

This series focuses on the important work of NMBI Board members. In this month’s issue, we speak with Eileen Kelly, NMBI Board member and Chair of the Fitness to Practise Committee (2011).