H—3lc

Throughout its deliberations the Conference was impressed not only by the outstanding work of the nursing profession during the recent difficult years, but also by the great efforts of Hospital Boards in their willing endeavour to meet the unprecedented demand for hospital accommodation for maternity patients. Although many of the problems which came before this Conference had been carefully considered by the Committee of Inquiry of 1946, it was felt that during the past two years the maternity services of the Dominion had passed through a very difficult period, due to the great rise in the birth-rate and difficulties of accommodation and staffing. Many of the problems submitted to the Conference were undoubtedly the outcome of these difficulties. The Conference, which, in comparison with the 1946 Committee, had the advantage of including hospital and departmental representatives, felt that these problems warranted free discussion, but also desires at the outset to place on record its deep appreciation of the gallant efforts of both nursing and medical staffs, as well as of the co-operation of Hospital Boards. The success of these efforts is reflected in the excellent record of maternal and infant welfares ; in this connection attention is directed to the figures for the last thirteen years as presented to the Conference. and attached hereto as Addendum 1. The views of the Conference are summarized in the following resolution, which was carried unanimously : " This Conference considers that a tribute should be paid to the obstetrical section of the nursing profession for the manner in which it has stood up to great difficulties and brought us through so difficult a period of years ; and that not only the obstetric nurses, but also the institutions and the members of the medical profession responsible for the care of maternity patients, should be accorded the thanks of the Conference."

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