Canterbury Trained Nurses' Association

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume II, Issue 2, 1 April 1909, Page 46

Canterbury Trained Nurses' Association

On Thursday evening, 18th^March, the Canterbury Trained Nurses' Association held its monthly general meeting in the Board Room of the Christchurch Hospital. By great good fortune, Miss Maclean and Dr. Valentine happened to be in Christchurch at the time, and they both promised to be present and speak to the nurses. Needless to say, with this promise in view, there was a very large gathering of members of the Association. After the business part of the meeting was concluded, the President (Mrs. Irving) said a few words of welcome to Miss Maclean, who then proceeded to give a most interesting address on the subject of amalgamation of the various local nurses' associations, and the formation of a New Zealand Nurses' Association. At the conclusion of the address, a motion conveying approval of Miss Maclean's suggestions with regard to amalgamation was unanimously passed by a show of hands. The President then called upon Miss Holford (vice-president of the Dunedin Trained Nurses' Association), who kindly gave an account oi how the question of amalgamation had been dealt with in that city. It was then proposed and seconded, " that should the four Associations amalgamate, and one central Council be formed for New Zealand, Mrs Grace Neill should be asked to be the first President, Miss Maclean General Vice-President, as in virtue of her official positions whose duties carry her all over New Zealand, and bring her in touch with nurses

in all parts, she would be able to do much to forward the movement." It was also decided to ask Miss Bicknell to act as Hon. Secretary to the Central Council, her official position also giving her special facilities for usefulness. The delegates from Canterbury to the proposed Central Council were next nominated and elected by ballot, Mrs. Irving being elected as Vice-President representing that branch and three other delegates — Miss Turner, Mrs. Lester and Miss. Beck. Dr. Valentine next spoke to the nurses, and gave a most inspiring and helpful address on the subjects of " Hospital Economics," and "The Loyalty of Nurses." We should like to take this opportunity of thanking Dr. Valentine very earnestly for his most excellent and practical remarks. An animated discussion took place on the eight -hour system at a meeting of the Association on 16th April. The discussion was opened by Dr. Acland, and was carried on with much spirit for and against the system which is so largely in vogue in New Zealand hospitals. Five of the medical profession were present, and joined in the debate, and the meeting came to the conclusion that some change was necessary. We hope to receive a more detailed account of this discussion on a most important question for our July issue. Some very interesting and instructive lectures are being arranged for the Canterbury Nurses' Association.