The prolonged closure of the All Saints Community Clinic was driven by serious sewage and safety problems that posed risks to staff and patients, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph said, as he addressed questions about the long-delayed reopening of the facility.
Speaking at a recent media briefing, Joseph said the clinic was closed after long-standing complaints from nurses about sewage fumes backing up into critical areas of the building, including the kitchen and dining spaces. He said the conditions were unacceptable for the delivery of healthcare and required more than superficial repairs.
The minister said drainage pipes at the facility were improperly designed as part of the sewage system, resulting in recurring foul odors and health concerns. He noted that nurses had raised the issue for years before the decision was taken to close the clinic and undertake major corrective work.
Joseph said the government opted to address the underlying infrastructure problems rather than reopen the clinic prematurely. Planned work includes a redesign of the sewage system, repairs to leaks and an expansion of the facility to accommodate additional services, including a dental clinic and a larger pharmacy.
While acknowledging frustration in the All Saints community over the length of the closure, the minister rejected claims that residents have been deprived of healthcare services. He said patients were redirected to nearby clinics, including the Glanvilles Polyclinic, though he acknowledged transportation challenges and said improvements are being pursued.
Joseph said the aim is to reopen the All Saints facility as a modernized clinic that meets higher public health and safety standards. He added that reopening timelines will depend on completing the necessary infrastructure work and ensuring the facility is safe for both patients and healthcare workers.
Health officials said further updates will be provided as repairs progress and designs are finalized.
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What’s new here, Sewage and Safety Issues is what permeates the entire Administration. That’s why they should be carted out next election so Antigua and Barbuda can shine like before. By the way what has become of Faithful #1, can’t abide to Top Dawg anymore