In 2004 Patricia Minnock (ANP Rheumatology Rehabilitation) from Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services, and Deirdre McNamee (Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner) from Altnagelvin in Londonderry, recognised the need to form an all-Ireland forum for nurses working in the rapidly growing speciality of rheumatology.
The first meeting in May 2004 was attended by 40 nurses from both the South and North of Ireland. Keynote speaker was Ms Janice Mooney, RCN, Rheumatology Nurses Forum who presented on ‘The Development and Remit of the RCN Rheumatology Nursing Forum’.
The annual subscription for membership will be determined yearly by the committee. Subscription rates apply to a calendar year and, are due annually on March 1st.
We represent and promote the vital role of nurses working in rheumatology throughout Ireland. We provide collegial support and advice through on-going educational activities and the promotion of evidence based practice and research.
We collaborate with other professional and voluntary organisations in rheumatology on issues related to patient advocacy, services, policies and guidelines to support excellence in practice. We provide opportunities to network locally, nationally and internationally and ensure the delivery of patient centred quality care.
Membership is open to all registered nurses working in clinical practice in rheumatology. Membership fees of €20.00/ Stg 17.00 are due by 31st January annually.
The annual subscription for membership will be determined yearly by the committee. Subscription rates apply to a calendar year and, are due annually on March 1st.
The Forum will meet at least once a year. This will include the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The quorum for the AGM shall be ten.
Outgoing Chairperson
Secretary
Honorary Treasurer
Membership Lead
Communication/ Bursary officer
Chairperson & Clinical Care Programme Nurse Lead
Social media lead
The IRNF email account is checked weekly and emails will be acknowledged within seven days, otherwise out of office notification with alternate arrangements will be posted.