Premier John Horgan has released the following statement in recognition of International Nurses Day:

“Today is International Nurses Day, and in appreciation of B.C. nurses, the Province is proud to proclaim May 11 – 17 as Nursing Week to recognize the extraordinary contributions of licensed practical nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, registered nurses and nurse practitioners.

“This year, British Columbians join people from around the world in raising our hands to the nurses working tirelessly to help people in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 has reminded us all of the selflessness, dedication and leadership it takes to be a nurse.

“May 12th also marks the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. As a nurse, she helped lay the foundation for safe, sanitary medical practices in the 19th and 20th centuries, and continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps to help ease people’s pain and suffering through compassionate care. Nightingale was famously quoted as saying, ‘How very little can be done under the spirit of fear,’ and I think these words can inspire us all to act with courage and determination during the COVID-19 crisis.

“On behalf of British Columbians, thank you to B.C.’s nurses for moving heaven and earth to help people with COVID-19 and all the other medical needs that don’t stop during a pandemic. We recognize that you are being pushed to the limit, which is why we must all keep doing our part to protect and support B.C.’s front line workers and our health care system.

“Like so many British Columbians, I have been standing on my front porch every evening to bang pots and pans in your honour. I continue to feel sincere gratitude each time. Thank you for everything you do.”

For a French translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.12_STM_International_Nurses_Day-FR.pdf

For a Chinese translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.12_STM_International_Nurses_Day-TC.pdf

For a Punjabi translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.12_STM_International_Nurses_Day-Punjabi.pdf

For a Tagalog translation:  https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.12_STM_International_Nurses_Day-Tagalog.pdf

For a Korean translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.12_STM_International_Nurses_Day-Korean.pdf