Alliance delighted to award Freedom of Borough to health and social care workers

Alliance Councillor Lorna McAlpine has said she was “delighted” to see the Freedom of the Borough finally awarded to health and social care workers across Ards and North Down, at a special ceremony in Bangor’s Walled Garden on Saturday.Securing the move back in March, Councillor McAlpine said the positive move was made even better by the fact it had secured cross-party backing, with all parties represented at the event this weekend.

She said: “Over the past 70 years, the NHS has provided care and support for the sick, the vulnerable, older people and those in need across our society – including through the darkest days of the troubles. I’m delighted all Councillors were able to back this proposal and it was fantastic to see everyone come together to mark this milestone.”

Councillor Karen Douglas, who supported the motion, added: “Since the foundation of the NHS in 1948, technology and the way we deliver health and social care has rapidly evolved, vastly improving the health and well-being of our citizens. During this time two things have remained constant, namely the passionate and professional dedication of staff, plus commitment to the vision set out by Beveridge to provide provision from cradle to grave.

“In that 70th anniversary year, it seems extremely appropriate we gave this award recognising service and our love of health and social care in Northern Ireland.”