Amid recent criticisms and an opposition protest, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has publicly expressed his unwavering support for Saint Lucia’s health care professionals and Health minister, Moses Jn Baptiste.
The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) organised a protest on Tuesday, demanding the reopening of the Castries health center, which has been closed since December 2023.
Prime Minister Pierre addressed the protest, noting that while he respects citizens’ democratic right to demonstrate, he wishes that protests would remain “sensible.”
According to Pierre “I have full confidence in the health minister and in the doctors and nurses of Saint Lucia.” Reiterating his belief in the government’s commitment to resolving ongoing challenges in the health care sector, Pierre also emphasised that the island’s healthcare struggles are longstanding and not unique, referencing that Saint Lucia is not the only one struggling with those issues.”Health is an issue that has got more serious after COVID-19”.
The prime minister acknowledged the toll various challenges have taken on Saint Lucia’s health care system but pointed out significant recent investments as evidence of the government’s dedication. “We’ve invested $15 million in health services over the last two months,” he said, adding that “a massive financial investment” is imminent, with further developments planned for several health facilities across the island.
He confirmed that work on a new polyclinic at the former Victoria Hospital site and the “fifth finger” expansion at OKEU Hospital would begin soon.
Responding to questions about universal health care and new services for vulnerable groups, Pierre assured that the government is enhancing services for the elderly, mothers, and others in need, including new cancer screening and testing services.
“We are not there to complain. We are there to fix it,” the Prime Minister declared.
