RCN General Secretary Pat Cullen Resigns
RCN general secretary Pat Cullen is stepping down from her union role to pursue a political career, pursuing a nomination as an MP for Sinn Féin, representing the Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency in Northern Ireland.
Nicola Ranger, RCN’s director of nursing, will act in her place until a permanent successor is appointed. In her message to RCN members, Ms Cullen expressed that it had been a difficult decision.
The decision comes after eight years with the RCN, the last three as general secretary and chief executive, during which she navigated challenging and transformative events, including historic strike actions in 2022, when Ms Cullen supported nurses on picket lines.
Ms Cullen expressed her hope that her legacy at the RCN would be empowering the nursing profession to find its voice and advocate for change. Ms Cullen conveyed her gratitude towards RCN members for their personal and professional support, affirming her immutable connection to the college, but felt that the time was right to enter the political field to advocate for her beloved community.
The RCN lauded Ms Cullen as a courageous advocate for the nursing profession, noting her impactful decision-making and dedication to pay justice, which inspired significant membership growth and enhanced the RCN’s reputation. RCN council chair Paul Vaughan praised her fearless leadership and her efforts to address internal cultural issues.
The Fermanagh and South Tyrone seat is currently held by Sinn Féin’s Michelle Gildernew. Ms Gildernew recently announced she would not seek re-election, opting to run in the European Parliament elections in Ireland.