working in Bermuda passed in the Senate yesterday.

This legislation repealed the 1969 Nurses Act and made new provisions for the regulation of nursing.

Under the legislation, the Bermuda Nursing Council will promote the art and science of nursing as well as developing and maintaining the standards of nursing practice.

The BNC will also advise the Minister on nursing-related matters as well as establishing and maintaining a register of general nurses, nurse specialists and nursing associates.

The council will consist of nine members. Initially there was some concern when, on one interpretation of the legislation, all nurses would be required to become members of the Nurses Association in order to practice on the Island.

Consequently, the Senate sent the matter back to the House of Assembly where it was amended to allow for nurses to belong to any association that was approved by the council.