Staff Recognition Day held at Mayo hospital
A wonderful day of celebration was held July 11 last at Ballina District Hospital to recognise staff, both past and present.
Ballina District Hospital and the staff have been a central part of the community since its opening in 1936, providing employment and healthcare to the local area.
The staff recognition day celebrated the contribution they have made to their community, and provided an opportunity for them to renew their relationships with colleagues past and present.
This chance to reconnect was particularly important in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of staff. The pandemic had resulted in some staff being unable to mark their retirements due to restrictions in place at the time. This day was a chance to thank them with a retirement roll of honour and wish them well in retirement.
Two staff members, Breda Moran and Phyllis Leneghan, received presentations and both spoke of their careers at the hospital with pride.
The day also included a moment for deceased members of staff and their families, with Bishop John Fleming offering prayers and reflection. Those attending observed a moment of silence.
Other highlights of the day included: a performance by the Moy Singers, including family members of patients and staff both past and present; a display of traditional Irish dancing from the Moffatt School of Irish Dancing, Mayo, and Scoil Rince Breifne Ó Ruairc, Pittsfield, MA, USA; a buffet lunch catered by the staff of Ballina District; entertainment by The Duets; and prizes donates by local businesses and individuals.
Local politicians and senior medical personnel attended to pay tribute to the hospital staff and patients. Those in attendance included: Terry McCole (patient representative), who was the MC for the event and reflected on what Ballina District Hospital and its staff have meant to the service user; Minister of State Dara Calleary, who committed his support to continued provision and further development of services at the site; Councillor Seamus Weir (Cathaoirleach, Ballina MD), who reflected on the contribution of Ballina District Hospital to healthcare in the community and recognised the patients and their families; Councillor Michael Loftus (Cathaoirleach, Mayo County Council), who, very recently bereaved, spoke of his close family ties with the hospital (and some treasured photos from his personal collection were made available for those present to view); Councillor Mark Duffy, who welcomed new staff, including those who have come from overseas; and Fidelma Gallagher (director of nursing), thanked the local community for their support.
The organising committee would like to thank all those who contributed in any way to the success of the day, providing of their time and services generously.