Prime Minister Gaston Browne has signalled that his government may reconsider plans to convert the former Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall in Sea View Farm into a wellness centre, following advice from international health experts.
The six-acre site was purchased in 2024 for US$3m, with the aim of providing short-term mental health care. But consultants from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), who are helping draft a new Mental Health Bill, have questioned the value of creating standalone psychiatric facilities.
Dr Soumitra Pathare, an adviser to PAHO, said such institutions were costly and often delivered poor results. He argued that embedding mental health services within primary care reduces stigma, broadens access and allows earlier treatment.
Speaking on his weekly radio programme, Mr Browne called the approach “revolutionary” and admitted he had not fully appreciated the importance of integration in healthcare. While noting the government’s financial outlay on the site, he said discussions would be held with the health minister to determine whether the property should be repurposed.
The prime minister also pledged to consult PAHO on phasing out psychiatric institutions altogether. He described mental health as a “grave crisis” requiring urgent national attention and wider public education.
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