Menu
05/07/2021
NI Health And Social Care System Awarded George Cross
The Northern Ireland Health and Social Care system and the NHS have been awarded the George Cross by Her Majesty the Queen ahead of the institution's 73rd anniversary.
Welcoming the award, NI's Health Minister Robin Swann said: "This is a very special and poignant day. The George Cross is the highest civilian gallantry award and has only been bestowed collectively twice before. It recognises decades of dedicated service by the National Health Services, including the courageous work by staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This is for everyone working across Northern Ireland's Health and Social Care system at all levels. We will be forever indebted to them - for their commitment, compassion and expertise.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly been the biggest challenge faced by the health service since its inception. The response from our health and care staff has been both inspirational and humbling. They are indeed the best of us.
"It is particularly fitting that the award is announced as the UK marks the 73rd birthday of the NHS. I am in no doubt that the National Health Service is one of society's finest achievements. Her Majesty's announcement reflects the special place it has in our hearts."
Department of Health Permanent Secretary Richard Pengelly added: "In referring to the Northern Ireland Health and Social Care system, the George Cross award citation acknowledges our integrated system of care, which is unique across the UK regions.
"Today is a time for reflection on all the ways the health service has cared for us, individually and collectively.
"I have seen up close how the health and care system has responded to the pandemic, protecting people from the virus and saving many lives.
"The problems facing our modern day health service are well documented. However, we should not forget that it continues to provide world class, compassionate care to people day in and day out."
Welcoming the award, NI's Health Minister Robin Swann said: "This is a very special and poignant day. The George Cross is the highest civilian gallantry award and has only been bestowed collectively twice before. It recognises decades of dedicated service by the National Health Services, including the courageous work by staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This is for everyone working across Northern Ireland's Health and Social Care system at all levels. We will be forever indebted to them - for their commitment, compassion and expertise.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly been the biggest challenge faced by the health service since its inception. The response from our health and care staff has been both inspirational and humbling. They are indeed the best of us.
"It is particularly fitting that the award is announced as the UK marks the 73rd birthday of the NHS. I am in no doubt that the National Health Service is one of society's finest achievements. Her Majesty's announcement reflects the special place it has in our hearts."
Department of Health Permanent Secretary Richard Pengelly added: "In referring to the Northern Ireland Health and Social Care system, the George Cross award citation acknowledges our integrated system of care, which is unique across the UK regions.
"Today is a time for reflection on all the ways the health service has cared for us, individually and collectively.
"I have seen up close how the health and care system has responded to the pandemic, protecting people from the virus and saving many lives.
"The problems facing our modern day health service are well documented. However, we should not forget that it continues to provide world class, compassionate care to people day in and day out."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
11 April 2013
£40m Health Care Centres Announced For NI
Two new £40m health care centres for Northern Ireland have been given the go-ahead. The new Lisburn and Newry facilities will accommodate GPs as well as a number of community services provided by the Trusts.
£40m Health Care Centres Announced For NI
Two new £40m health care centres for Northern Ireland have been given the go-ahead. The new Lisburn and Newry facilities will accommodate GPs as well as a number of community services provided by the Trusts.
14 September 2012
Cancer Patients Missing Out On NI Treatment Targets
Cancer patients across Northern Ireland are starting treatment late as health trusts fail on basic performance standards, it has emerged. Last April, the health minister said 95% of people who were urgently referred with suspected cancer should begin treatment within 62 days.
Cancer Patients Missing Out On NI Treatment Targets
Cancer patients across Northern Ireland are starting treatment late as health trusts fail on basic performance standards, it has emerged. Last April, the health minister said 95% of people who were urgently referred with suspected cancer should begin treatment within 62 days.
16 June 2022
Health Minister Publishes Three Year Workforce Action Plan
Health Minister Robin Swann has published an ambitious three year action plan to help address workforce challenges. The newly published action plan is the second instalment under the Department’s long term ‘Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for Our People’.
Health Minister Publishes Three Year Workforce Action Plan
Health Minister Robin Swann has published an ambitious three year action plan to help address workforce challenges. The newly published action plan is the second instalment under the Department’s long term ‘Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for Our People’.
11 March 2003
Primary care must be strengthened says Browne
The role of primary care has to be strengthened and expanded, NIO Health Minister Des Browne has told delegates at the ‘Primary Care-Moving Forward’ conference in Armagh today.
Primary care must be strengthened says Browne
The role of primary care has to be strengthened and expanded, NIO Health Minister Des Browne has told delegates at the ‘Primary Care-Moving Forward’ conference in Armagh today.
24 November 2010
Call For More NHS Domestics
An urgent call for 200 more domestic staff in the local health service to safeguard and enhance patient safety is being made today by the trade union UNISON.
Call For More NHS Domestics
An urgent call for 200 more domestic staff in the local health service to safeguard and enhance patient safety is being made today by the trade union UNISON.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A cloudy day with outbreaks of mainly light rain at times, although there may be the odd heavier burst. Driest in the south and east during the afternoon. Moderate southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Staying cloudy throughout the evening and overnight period with a little rain or drizzle at times. Mild overnight with light winds. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
