A Message from the Chairman

The past year has been a challenging one for the Northern Health and Social Services Council. The Review of Public Administration consultation makes a clear statement of Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety thinking on Health and Social Services Councils

“DHSSPS proposes to replace the four Councils with a single regional body. This body would have a strengthened role in establishing and representing the views of the public on the priorities for health and social services and how they are delivered. It would also have a role in seeking to resolve individual complaints that cannot be resolved at the local level. The intention is that the new Regional Council would have a local office in the areas of each of the five/seven new HPSS agencies.”

With this in mind we will be joining forces to come up with a response that considers the current functions of Councils and the core issues to be addressed notwithstanding the Review. We will look at the opportunities and challenges arising from the Review and the future purpose, composition and infrastructure of a single Council. Above all we will stress that independence is of paramount importance.

In looking to the future the next few months will also bring about a change in Council membership. I extend my good wishes to those who will be saying farewell and a warm welcome to the new members. I would also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to members and staff as they continue to work tirelessly to bring about improvements in health and social care.

TOM CREIGHTON
CHAIRMAN