This is my first year as Chairman of the Western Health and Social Services Council. I wish to extend the thanks of the Council to the outgoing Chairman, Mr Raymond Rogan, for all his hard work both as Chairman and as a Council member over the years.

One of the major changes this year has been the Review of Public Administration consultation which outlines the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety's plans to replace the four existing Health Councils with a single regional body which would have a strengthened role in representing the views of the public. At a joint Council workshop held in June 2004, Council members had an opportunity to discuss potential models and roles of the new Council and to agree a way forward in responding to the Review. No doubt this will present further challenges in the year ahead in our efforts to ensure that the new Council continues to represent the public in health and social care.

Finally, I wish to thank all the Council members and staff for their hard work and commitment throughout the year and Iook forward to working with the Council in what will no doubt be a challenging year ahead.

Mr Paddy McGowan

Chairman