College of emergency nurses New Zealand (CENNZ) chair Sandy Richardson told the AGM it was “really disappointing” to see it had been left out.
She was backed by the cancer nurses college, enrolled nurses section and other representatives.
“It’s a little disturbing to see that violence and aggression isn’t considered at that highest level, because I think it really does need to be acknowledged at that point,” Richardson said.
Chief executive Memo Musa acknowledged it was an “important piece of work” included in an earlier draft but removed during board decision-making. It was part of NZNO’s work plan. Given the strength of opinion, he was prepared, with the board’s approval, to return it. Richardson thanked him for the “responsiveness”.
Te Tai Tonga/Southern regional chair Linda Smillie said ensuring NZNO was an “effective and sustainable organisation” should be the plan’s first pillar, as “without this the other pillars cannot be attained”. Musa agreed, subject to the board’s approval.
On that basis, the strategic plan was accepted by 93 per cent of voting members.
The strategy focuses on three pillars: Ensuring an effective, sustainable and bicultural NZNO; a skilled, strong workforce; and influencing improved health outcomes.
On the health workforce, NZNO will work to increase the number of Māori and Pacific nurses, ensure they get a fair deal, and safe and fair working conditions for all members.
On health outcomes, NZNO plans to lobby for a well-funded health system with equity of access and culturally appropriate services that reduce health disparities.