Broadcaster and journalist Marian Finucane delivered a lecture on the topic of ‘Listening' at the 78th Annual Biological Society Meeting, held at RCSI on Friday, 14 January 2011.

During her talk, Marian Finucane spoke about how important it is for healthcare professionals to give time to listen to patients' needs and feedback. She emphasised that although listening is of upmost importance, it is often underestimated in the patient's treatment plan.

The proceedings were opened by the new President of the Society, Professor Mary Leader, followed by the presentation of medals. Among the recipients were David Lynch, who received the RCSI Council Medal; Jean Engela who received the RCPI Council Medal; Yasser Al-Jabi, who received Denis Gill Medal. Daniel Joyce and David Lynch, recipients of The Leonard Abrahamson Medal, were also acknowledged.

Professor Mary Leader delivered her Inaugural Presidential Address entitled 'Celebrating the past, focusing on the future'.

The Biological Society is the longest running society at RCSI, and is made up of Medical students and faculty members. The Society promotes and encourages lateral thinking and healthy competition through broad based discussions at guest speaker forums and case competitions. During the college year, students present case studies to a judging panel of professors and doctors. The categories include Paediatric Case Competition, Obstetrics Case Competition, Senior Case Competition and Junior Case Competition. This year an Intercollegiate Global Health Competition will be held in April 2011.