On August 29, 2024, the President of the AIPPS had the honor of attending the Azadi Celebration Event in Dublin, an event marked by vibrant celebrations of freedom, unity, and community spirit. The event was thoughtfully organized by Cllr Ammar Ali and Eagle Events, showcasing a commitment to bringing together diverse communities in a shared celebration of heritage and solidarity.

The celebration was a significant occasion that not only honored the spirit of Azadi but also provided an invaluable opportunity for meaningful interactions among key community figures. During the event, the AIPPS President had the pleasure of meeting with prominent local leaders, including Senator Catherine Ardagh and Cllr Jencumminssocdems. These discussions highlighted a mutual dedication to fostering collaboration and working towards common goals that benefit our communities.

The President’s participation in the event underscored a shared vision of unity and progress, paving the way for future cooperative efforts. The enthusiastic engagement and positive dialogue among all attendees emphasized a strong commitment to nurturing relationships and creating opportunities for collective growth.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to Cllr Ammar Ali and Eagle Events for orchestrating such a memorable and impactful event. The AIPPS is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and looks forward to continuing to build on these important relationships to contribute to a brighter and more connected future for all.

We’re excited to invite all new Pakistani doctors in Ireland to a special Welcome Event, hosted by the Pakistan Embassy Dublin in collaboration with the Association of Pakistani Physicians and Surgeons (AIPPS).

Date: Saturday, 17th August 2024
Location: Pakistan Embassy, Dublin, Ireland
Time: 4:00 PM (Dublin Time)

This event is designed to support your transition into the Irish healthcare system. The orientation session will provide you with essential information on practicing medicine in Ireland, cultural integration, and valuable networking opportunities. It’s also a chance to connect with your peers and seasoned professionals who can offer guidance and support as you embark on your medical career here.

Whether you’ve just arrived or are already settling in, this event is a great opportunity to build connections and gain insights that will help you thrive in your new environment.

Please #RSVP by 13th August 2024 using the provided contact numbers. Your early response will assist us in organizing a successful event. We look forward to welcoming you to the Pakistan Embassy in Dublin. Don’t hesitate to share this invitation and help spread the word!

On Sunday evening, May 26, 2024, the AIPPS (Association of International Physicians and Practitioners) held its quarterly executive council meeting in Dublin. The gathering was a significant event, bringing numerous pressing issues to the forefront and announcing new role allocations, marking a pivotal moment for the organization. The meeting highlighted various critical issues affecting the community, prominently featuring discussions on family visa delays and accommodation concerns. These matters have been a growing concern for many members, especially those transitioning during the next changeover period.

Moreover, family visa delays have been a persistent challenge, causing considerable stress and uncertainty among members. The council discussed the extensive impacts of these delays, emphasizing the emotional and logistical difficulties faced by international physicians and their families. Solutions and potential advocacy strategies were debated, aiming to expedite visa processing times and relieve affected members.

Another important issue, accommodation-related issues, was also brought to light. With the upcoming changeover, many members face difficulties securing suitable housing. The council explored various strategies to alleviate these problems, including partnerships with housing agencies and potential support from the government. The discussion highlighted the need for a cohesive approach to ensure all members can transition smoothly without the added burden of accommodation stress.

In addition to addressing pressing issues, the meeting was marked by announcing new role allocations within the executive council. These new roles bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the leadership team, promising a dynamic future for the organization. Liqa U Rehman has been appointed as the Vice President. With a proven track record of leadership and dedication to the community, Liqa is expected to bring innovative ideas and a strong commitment to enhancing member support and organizational growth.

Moazzam has taken on the role of General Secretary. His organizational skills and experience within the community make him an excellent fit for this position, where he will oversee administrative functions and ensure effective communication within the organization. Dr. Aziz Ur Rehman has been named Senior Vice President. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the challenges faced by international physicians will be invaluable in guiding the organization toward achieving its strategic goals. Dr. Rizwan Khan has assumed the role of Joint Secretary. Known for his collaborative approach and attention to detail, Dr. Khan is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the General Secretary and ensuring the smooth execution of organizational activities.

Final Thoughts

The AIPPS executive council meeting in Dublin addressed significant current issues and set the stage for a promising future with its new leadership team. The discussions and decisions made during this meeting reflect the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting its members and proactively addressing their concerns.

As the newly appointed leaders take on their roles, there is a collective sense of optimism and determination to overcome the challenges faced by the community. The AIPPS stands as a beacon of support for international physicians and practitioners, advocating for their needs and working tirelessly to ensure their professional and personal well-being.

Suggested Readings

“Strengthening Support: AIPPS Engages with Pakistani Consulate in Belfast”

The Association of International Pakistani Physicians and Surgeons (AIPPS) is resolutely committed to addressing the myriad challenges faced by Pakistani doctors in Ireland. Recognizing the critical role that healthcare professionals play in society’s well-being, AIPPS is dedicated to supporting Pakistani physicians domestically and internationally.

The AIPPS team had the pleasure of meeting the Consul General of Pakistan in Glasgow, Mr. Samar Javaid, on Saturday evening in Belfast. This event was a remarkable opportunity for the organization to engage directly with a key representative of the Pakistani government. We are particularly thankful for the invitation extended by Asim Sattar, who organized this significant event.

The gathering proved to be highly productive, as multiple operational queries were addressed by the Pakistan Consulate Glasgow Team and the Consul General himself. These discussions are crucial for overcoming the bureaucratic and logistical challenges Pakistani doctors face abroad. Various issues faced by the community in the UK and Ireland were discussed in detail, highlighting the essential role of Pakistani embassies and consulates in facilitating these matters.

Key topics included passport renewals, issuance of newborn child passports, and obtaining FRCS certificates, among other vital services. The dialogue also explored numerous possibilities to bring ease to the Pakistani community residing in the UK and Ireland, emphasizing the importance of efficient and accessible consular support.

This collaborative effort underscores AIPPS’s dedication to addressing the professional needs of Pakistani doctors and enhancing the overall quality of life for the broader Pakistani diaspora. Through continued cooperation with diplomatic representatives, AIPPS aims to create a more supportive environment for Pakistani physicians and their families, ensuring they can navigate their professional and personal lives with greater ease and confidence.

We are grateful to all the organizers for arranging such a successful event, especially Faisal Mirza and Adil Sattar. Their efforts ensured a smooth and informative session, fostering a stronger connection between the AIPPS and the Pakistani Consulate. This collaboration marks a vital step forward in our ongoing mission to support and advocate for Pakistani physicians’ professional interests and well-being worldwide.

Muhammad Moazzam Gulzar | 21/05/2024

Suggested Readings

Visa Delays in Ireland: AIPPS Advocacy