Donegal Gardai and HSE host knowledge sharing and networking conference in Burt

An important HSE and Garda knowledge sharing and networking event is taking place today at An Grianan Hotel in Burt.

The aim of the event is to provide the members and staff of An Garda Síochána (AGS) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) in County Donegal a better understanding of the respective services and key personnel in both organisations.

It will also provide staff in both the HSE/AGS with a better understanding of the key frontline services and processes for vulnerable people who require assistance and/or who may be a victim of crime with a focus on the victim and/or the vulnerable.

Chief Superintendent Goretti Sheridan, Donegal Division speaking at the event emphasised that “An Garda Síochána is committed to developing and maintaining collaborative partnerships to address the needs of our communities and keep vulnerable persons and vulnerable victims safe.  

ABOVE: L-R Detective Inspector Siobhan Monaghan (DPSU), Inspector Paul Gallagher Buncrana, Superintendent Sean Grant Buncrana, Mandy Doyle Head of Primary Care CH CDLMS, Edel Quinn, Head of Disability Services, CH CDLMS, Patricia Garland, Social Inclusion Manager, Tina Gardiner, Principal Social Worker, Social Work Service Donegal, Chief Superintendent, Goretti Sheridan Donegal Division, Superintendent Karen Duffy, Ballyshannon, Joe Nelis, Social Worker Team Lead HSE, Donna McGee. Addiction Services Lead, Social Inclusion

"We must continue to work together so that all those who are vulnerable or who may require our assistance, are fully supported and know that we are here to help. There are challenges and complexities to the work of both services, but An Garda Síochána in Donegal are committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of people living in the communities across the Donegal region that we proudly serve,” she said.

With over 190 HSE and AGS staff participating, the event aims to promote, develop and improve upon the existing interagency working relationship between AGS and the HSE in County Donegal for the enhanced care and protection of the local population.

The joint event will have key services and personnel presenting on their role in the context of HSE/AGS interfaces.

The event will focus on what is working well at present, look at existing challenges and consider proposals for better interagency working opportunities by the HSE and AGS.

ABOVE: Senior Management and staff from HSE, National Ambulance Services, and An Garda Síochána (AGS) at the knowledge sharing & networking conference

It’s hoped that following the event, an evaluation will use the specific learning outcomes, and proposals for future events, and opportunities for joint learning and working between the AGS/HSE in County Donegal.

Mandy Doyle Head of Service, Primary Care CH CDLMS added:

“Today is a wonderful opportunity for both agencies to come together and share their knowledge to benefit the people of Donegal. Both agencies play such an important role in their communities and learning more about each other’s work will bring huge benefits to all those they assist.”