By Lilian Sopera Keneqa – EMTV News, Port Moresby
The Papua New Guinea Nurses Association officially swore in their National Executives on Thursday. The election process took a span of six months with 74 candidates from around the country, contesting for provincial positions as well as national.
Frederick Kebai, newly-elected National President, said among other goals his team will pursue, a chief nurse position will be created and placed in the Department of Health. Kebai from Madang Province is a male nurse that works at Laloki Psychiatric Hospital.
With over 15 years of experience in the medical field, he desires to see the many changes as he goes into office. Following the swearing in, he said that he will maintain stability and continuity of administration. Work value studies will be a priority so nurses can be re-classed to salary grade 9 or 10.
He also wants a chief nursing position to be created in the health department. Fighting for the Director of Nursing services position to be retained will be another one of his team’s priorities.
Damaris Penias, who is retaining her position as PNGNA National Treasurer, is more than positive this team of executives will deliver. Industrial Registrar from the Department of Labour, Helen Saliau, reminded the executives of their responsibilities to the country and association.
