Health Minister Robin Swann has announced the upcoming appointment of a new Chief Nursing Officer for Northern Ireland.

Ms Maria McIlgorm will take up the most senior position in nursing in March 2022 having recently worked as a professional advisor within the Scottish Government.

Maria has extensive leadership, management and strategic experience working across a range of acute and community settings within Health and Social care in England and Scotland.

Welcoming Maria to the post, Minister Swann said: "I am delighted to announce Maria McIlgorm as Northern Ireland's new Chief Nursing Officer.  Maria brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge that will complement the dedication and professionalism of the nurses, midwives and Allied Health professional across the health and care sector."

 Ms Maria McIlgorm said: "I am delighted and privileged to be appointed to the Chief Nursing Officer post in Northern Ireland. I was born in Belfast and from a young age have had a close affiliation with here, so this feels like coming home."

Concluding the Minister said: " I look forward to Maria joining the team of professionals at the Department of Health and wish her well for the move.  I want to also thank the outgoing interim CNO, Linda Kelly and wish her well for her new post."