Message on the Occasion of International Nurses’ day 2024 from the President/CEO, Mr. Patrick Yarde.
International Nurses Day 2024 will be celebrated on May 12, 2024 with the theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care”. Nurses are the back bone of the Health Care Sector and often times experience considerable economic constraints in fulfilling their financial and family obligations. This year’s theme focuses on the economic power of care with the aim of reshaping societal perception of Nurses and to demonstrate that strategic investment and financial upliftment will enhance the lives of nursing personnel to the benefits of societies.
The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has always been in the forefront of representing to the highest level a need for a shift in perspective in addressing improved benefits and conditions for health Care workers. Many times, health care workers are overlooked and underemphasized for the economic values they bring to communities in safeguarding health and safety, irrespective of threats to self and family.
The GPSU also recognizes the return on investment that healthcare workers, especially Nurses, provide particularly in turbulent times. The recent Covid-19 Pandemic was a classic example of the turbulence created in the health sector and the intensifying levels of sacrifices and threats surrounding the delivery of quality health care to the populace. However, day in and day out Nurses demonstrated tremendous resolve and unwavering dedication to the execution of their duties with respect and compassion. But despite this commitment, the reality of the daily struggles of Nurses worldwide are compounded by increasing risks of diseases, rising levels of political conflicts, the phenomenon of the climate crisis, and the undue shifts in policies to favour and give preferential treatment to selected elements in society, other than the humanitarian and health necessities for the most vulnerable.
To the Nurses that continue to provide quality health care, and who keeps our society from becoming unstable and chaotic, the GPSU wishes to thank you for the steadfastness displayed and commitment to your calling and the population, despite the myriad of issues being experienced.
The GPSU also advises that all Nurses should be in a state of preparedness, and be bold to confront the challenges facing the healthcare system. The GPSU resounds the call to the general public in support of nursing personnel in its pursuit of better economic prosperity and quality of life, as they continue to deliver quality health care to the benefit of the Nation.
The President, Executive Council and Members of the GPSU salute our Nightingales. Be reminded of your worth and the essential, valuable and indispensable service that you provide without fear or favour, the caring touch that heals, that encourages and comforts.
For your Strength,
and know-how,
Your skillful touch,
For your endless efforts…
You are appreciated so much!
Happy International Nurses’ Day 2024.