Paul Reid has said his time as director general of the HSE has been one of the most inspirational times of his career as he paid an emotional tribute to HSE staff on his last day as CEO.
The former civil servant announced he would be leaving his role earlier this year as the HSE enters a “new phase” of operations. He was originally set to depart in December, but later confirmed he would officially step down in early October and take a period of accrued leave.
The reasons behind his resignation include reports that he wanted to spend more time with his family. The 57-year-old was first appointed director general in April 2019 and was one of the most familiar faces in Ireland over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Mr Reid wrote on Twitter: “Feeling emotionally drained saying goodbye to staff that come to work every day to give people good care & hope. This has been the most inspirational time of my career. I'm humbled & a better person for the privilege.”
The HSE’s chief financial officer, Stephen Mulvaney, will step in as acting CEO on a temporary basis from October 3rd. He will serve as director general until a replacement has been found for Mr. Reid.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly praised Mr. Reid for his efforts as director general and said he would be missed in the role. He also stated that the CEO “left behind” a much improved health service that was undergoing significant reform.
The Minister said in a statement: “Throughout the pandemic, Paul played a critical role in leading Ireland’s response to the greatest health emergency of our times.”
“I want to wish Paul all the best for the time ahead and to thank him and his family for the many sacrifices they have made over the last 3 years to allow him to dedicate himself to the role of CEO.”
He had previously told RTE he continues to be haunted by the deaths of healthcare workers during the pandemic. Mr. Reid worked at the HSE during a tumultuous time, with issues such as the Covid-19 response and the 2021 cyberattack on the health service to contend with.
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