Statement

Dear colleagues,

Selfless acts of bravery, kindness, and heroism go unseen every day in Ireland and around the world.  In the streets of Dublin amidst the tragedy and violence yesterday, we witnessed these acts, as first responders, doctors, nurses, and members of the public, thought not of themselves, but of the injured.  They bravely fought to protect and save them.  Like the unseen bravery and heroism of the many healthcare workers who went to work every day during the pandemic, we owe those who represent the best of us and what we stand for a debt of gratitude.

As we think of those heroes, our thoughts in the college, are of course, also with those affected by conflict across the world.  In particular, we keep in our thoughts and express our gratitude to the doctors and healthcare workers who, at great risk to themselves, are looking after men, women, children, and infants.  They are working in extremely dangerous and challenging conditions.  Healthcare workers providing care to civilians must be protected as laid out in the Geneva Convention.  Children and infants are particularly vulnerable and every effort must be made to protect their health and wellbeing.

I would ask you all as you go through your busy day, in a moment of silent reflection, to keep all of these in your thoughts.

Here in the college, our work continues.  In light of events in Dublin, we were advised to postpone the in-person meetings that were due to take place at No 6 Kildare Street, today, Friday 24 November.  My apologies to all of you who had worked so hard to put the meeting programmes together and to those of you who had taken the time out of your working day and planned to attend.  Clearly your safety and the safety of the team in the college take priority.

Stay safe and be well

Dr Diarmuid O'Shea

President, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland