|
Welcome,
Having been associated with BIPA from its inauguration I am very proud to be the Chairman. We must show our appreciation to previous Chairs for their robust and skilful lead of BIPA leading to its transition from infancy to preteen years. However, we must not underestimate your contribution that has made BIPA a forward looking and compassionate setup.
Our last AGM was held in Coventry on 10th and 11th June 2006 amidst major concern over the 7th March declaration by Government that as of July 2006 all non EU medical graduates will require a work permit irrespective of their length of service in the UK. Trusts started its implementation from early April. BIPA had already been concerned about the plight of the post PLAB unemployed IMGs. BIPA felt that not only what was being proposed but also how it was being implemented was unfortunate. BIPA wrote a letter of protest to the Ministers, DH, GMC, BMA, RCPsych, and Academy of Medical Royal Colleges amongst others. In spite of BIPA's steady growth in stature perhaps it was not yet robust enough to take on the Government head on. So we joined hands with BAPIO. Our members participated in the protest march in London and to help the legal challenge mounted by BAPIO with support from others we raised just under £1277 after the Gala Dinner at the AGM with pledges of £1990. The enthusiasm shown made us all proud. The challenge is progressing smoothly.
Our website is updated at regular intervals and contains information that the members want to know. Please visit it. Our aim is to achieve 100% 'email' communication for its other obvious advantages besides financial advantages for BIPA. If you have not been receiving communication from BIPA please ensure that we have your current postal and email addresses.
BIPA needs further strengthening to fulfil all its potential It needs your support in spreading its message and help in expansion of the membership base. NHS is facing many challenges. No one knows yet the consequences PMETB and MMC. Uncertainties and frequent changes may be a possibility. These challenges could be faced at individual levels perhaps a collective approach will be the strongest.
Long live BIPA.
Ranjit K Baruah MBBS, DPM, FRCpsych
Consultant Psychiatrist (Emeritus); Clinical Director (Retired); Chairman, BIPA June 2006 to June 2008
|