The College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC)  Board has decided to “initiate a measured and managed withdrawal from CNA as a jurisdictional member.”

Registrants at the 2010 CRNBC AGM in June will be asked to vote on a resolution authorizing the College to submit a written resignation to the Canadian Nurses Association. CNA’s Bylaws require one year notice of withdrawal from CNA as a member.

As with all health profession colleges that come under the Health Professions Act, CRNBC functions within legislation established by the provincial government and is required to work within its regulatory mandate.

A Singular Regulatory Function

Unlike its predecessor, the Registered Nurses Association of B.C., CRNBC does not have a dual role as a professional association and a regulatory body. CRNBC’s singular mandate is regulation. Since its inception in 2005, CRNBC has faced considerable challenges in balancing a relationship with an organization that advocates on behalf of nurses and health and social policy issues while simultaneously meeting the requirements of a regulator.

CRNBC engaged in an extensive review and consultation to inform the Board’s concern that the compatibility of the mandates and functions of CNA and CRNBC have diminished since the establishment of the College.

CRNBC recognizes that this decision will be of concern to many registrants and is committed to implementing a withdrawal plan that will be transparent to CNA and other stakeholders. CRNBC will continue to provide information as the transition plans are developed.

Read the overview of the Evaluation of CRNBC’s Relationship with CNA

Read the full extensive review and consultation.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 24th, 2010 at 9:42 pm and is filed under Longwoods Online.