Minister of Health addresses University Court

Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Health and Social Service is greeted by Vice-Chancellor, Prof John G.HughesLesley Griffiths, the Minister for Health and Social Services addressed Bangor University’s Annual Court today (Friday 13 January 2012).

The Court is a large body which is made up of representatives of local authorities, members of parliament and other professions, and it provides a forum in which members of the community can interact with the University.

Lesley Griffiths, the Minister for Health and Social Services said:

"Bangor University has set itself a mission to be a world-class research-led university, to provide teaching and learning of the highest quality, and to contribute to the development of the economy, health and culture of a sustainable Wales and a sustainable world.

The increase in medical education in North Wales will develop future doctors who are already familiar with the bilingual and rural aspects of Wales.

Their mission echoes my ambition as Health Minister and that of the Welsh Government, to make the NHS in Wales world class in terms of quality of services and research.

As a Government, we recognise to achieve world class, our health services require a Wales-wide effort, from the community, individuals, the Government, the NHS, and from partners. I am pleased Bangor University sees itself as a partner, formally linked with the health board, established around a common agenda based on excellence and achievement."

The Minister with Prof Michael Rees (left) and Mr Dean Williams of the School of Medical SciencesFollowing her address to the Court, the Minister visited the University’s School of Medical Sciences and North Wales Clinical School and School of Healthcare Sciences accompanied by Professor David Shepherd, the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research & Enterprise. During the visit she discussed the School of Medical Sciences’ links with the NHS, and the development of medical-related education facilities and saw the work of the School Health Care Sciences in training nurses, radiographers and medical other practitioners, as well as their health sciences research.

Publication date: 13 January 2012