Note: This article was originally published in our Autumn 2020 edition of our On Call newsletter, and has not been updated.
As we say goodbye to 2020, I have reflected on the challenges this year has presented. From the initial announcement of the pandemic in March, to the current second wave, as well as the unjust events surrounding the murder of Mr. George Floyd, we as a society are being forced to take a deeper look at our priorities. These major events have exposed the inequities that exist in many facets of Canadian culture. For all of the negativity that has encompassed us this year, I am certain we will find a positive way forward, together. At the College of Midwives of Ontario, the Registrar-CEO, Directors and Staff have worked tirelessly to acknowledge, and address identified risks posed by the pandemic, and are developing ways to incorporate an equity, diversity, and inclusion lens to examine and enhance their daily work. As Chair of Council, I would like to commend the College team for their outstanding work during this challenging year.
I’m also pleased to report that the College’s Annual Report for the 2019-2020 fiscal year can now be accessed on the College’s website here. The report summarizes the College’s achievements over the last fiscal year and showcases our commitment to ensuring that midwives are meeting the College’s standards.
The Strategic Planning Working Group continues to work on the College’s new strategic plan for 2021-2026. The group held its third meeting in September where they reviewed the proposed strategic priorities and key performance indicators (KPIs). I look forward to sharing the new strategic plan with you in the new year.
Open and effective consultation is a critical part of our policy development. I would like to thank those who provided feedback to the College’s consultations for Phase 2 of our Standards Review, for the proposed changes to the General By-law, and those who provided answers to our two recent surveys. I understand that midwives have been under immense pressure this year, and the College appreciates the time invested to provide us with important feedback.
Lastly, I would like to make you all aware that we have replaced the title President with Chair as it more accurately reflects the role that I am in, you may read more about this change on page 6.
Sincerely,
Claire Ramlogan-Salanga
Chair