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Northern Ireland Health Minister - World M.E. Day Official Statement (2024)

Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann: A Global Voice for World M.E. Day 2024
 

Minister Swann and the Northern Ireland Department of Health agreed to become a World ME Alliance initiative, global voice for M.E. in response to lobbying by Hope 4 ME & Fibro N.I. 

In his message of support, Minister Swann recognised the need for greater understanding, improved services and meaningful action for people living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.) in Northern Ireland.

 

The Significance of This Recognition:

• Signal to healthcare professionals — When a government minister takes this on, it encourages clinicians, commissioners and administrators to take M.E. more seriously.
• A morale boost — For patients, caregivers and advocates — often isolated in their struggles — knowing that the challenge is being heard at the top can be profoundly motivating.

 

This public backing brings vital visibility to a community too often ignored, and we thank the Minister for standing with us in our campaign for recognition, specialist care and research. 2024 marked the 55th year since the World Health Organisation classified M.E. as a distinct neurological entity. 
 

Minister Robin Swann also showed support and encouraged people to visit local libraries, all accross the region, who hosted our Discover M.E. N.I. Library Tour.

In addition, Stormont Building, seat of the N.I. Legislative Assembly, was lit up blue to mark the 10th anniversary of Hope 4 ME & Fibro N.I. gaining official charity status. 

 

Watch the unprecedented short video here: