Joint statement from Chief Nursing Officer Maria McIlgorm and Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride

The health and social care system in Northern Ireland is, and will continue to be, a place of welcome and support for all, regardless of culture, ethnicity or background, and we are disgusted by the despicable and violent scenes of recent days.

We are angered that this behaviour has left some of our staff feeling anxious, frightened, and unwelcome. We want to reassure those staff that this behaviour is not representative of Northern Ireland, nor the people who live here.

The diversity within our committed and dedicated HSC and independent sector workforce should be embraced and celebrated. Much has been said about the hugely valuable contribution that our internationally educated and recruited colleagues and friends make to our health service, and that point cannot be overstated.

They come together day in and day out to provide kind and compassionate care to our sick and most vulnerable - irrespective of background - providing vital support to our health and social care system. Indeed, that contribution stands in stark contrast to the behaviour of those behind this violence.

We are the richer for our diverse and multicultural workforce, not only professionally, but within our communities right across Northern Ireland. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and to live in a safe environment free from harm and intimidation.

We therefore condemn and stand against this deplorable racist behaviour and express our full support to all HSC staff.

To those staff feeling vulnerable at this time, assistance is available from HSC employers. Northern Ireland has a proud reputation of providing excellent pastoral care for our international recruits, so please reach out for help if you need it.

Notes to editors: 

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