Dr Bourke is a Clinical Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics, Centre for Medical Education, Queen's University Belfast & Clinical Academic Consultant Paediatrician, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. He has held senior leadership roles in the NHS and academia including as a member of the Northern Ireland regional scrutiny committee; an expert advisor to NICE; and previously held roles within RCPCH including trainee, safeguarding and medicines committees.
New RCPCH Officer for Ireland Dr Thomas Bourke says:
As the newly appointed Officer for Ireland, a role I am honoured to take on, it will be a privilege to use my skills on behalf of paediatricians on the island of Ireland to advocate for the needs and rights of all children and young people.
In the role I would in particular wish to: highlight the impact that poverty and deprivation has on child health and wellbeing; work to ensure that our children and young people have timely access to the highest quality evidence based paediatric and mental health care; and advocate for families living with disability and chronic disease, particularly as they transition to adult services.
RCPCH President, Professor Steve Turner said:
I am delighted to welcome Dr Bourke as our new Officer for Ireland. Thomas’s experience in senior leadership roles in the NHS and academia will be indispensable to the College’s work in Northern Ireland/Ireland.
I know from having previously been the Officer for Scotland how crucial the role of the Officers in the nations are to our College, members and patients.
Thomas, the College and I are thrilled to have you on the health team.