Health Ministry to address Fort Island residents’ woes – commits to water purification intervention
Written by Gina Webmasters, Published in News, Georgetown, GINA, February 01, 2016, Source
A section of the residents of Fort Island, who attended the meeting with Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton
Residents of Fort Island, Region Three were able to have their concerns addressed by Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton and a visiting team, during a community meeting at the Island's health center.
The visit on Sunday, which was mainly for the purpose of inspection of the village’s health facility, turned into a public meeting following a request by the residents. During this meeting, several issues relating to other aspects of development were brought to light.
The residents complained bitterly about the health center, stating that, "it never open...the (Community) Health Worker never at the center." They added that residents from neighbouring communities and islands would seek treatment at the Fort Island health center, but when the residents visit the facility they are denied care.
In addition, it was brought to the team's attention that all of the employees at the health center are related, including an underage young man. Further, allegations of the Community Health Worker (CHW) being verbally abusive to some residents were also made; along with complaints of her deserting her post for long periods of time.
However, the most troubling health issue for the community is the lack of purified drinking water, which has led to a fairly high number of cases of diarrhoea and vomitting. Residents utilise the water from the Essequibo River for all household chores, and for cooking and drinking.
After listening to the residents’ concerns, Minister Norton committed to ensuring that tanks are set up for the purpose of water storage and purification. With regards to the issues surrounding the CHW, Regional Health Officer (ag) Dr. Shawn Bancroft, pointed out that some of these concerns have never reached him and as a result, he was unable to correct them. However, he added that an investigation by the Regional Health Services will soon commence to address the issue.
After addressing these issues, the Public Health Minister, turned his focus on other areas of development in the community pointing out that he will personally inform his Cabinet colleagues in the various sectors of the issues brought up. He urged the residents to speak up stating that it is their right and they should not be scared because no one will victimise them. "If I am the Minister, and I’m telling you to tell me if I said something on the radio or television, that I would do for this community and I didn't do, then no one else can victimise you," he said.
The residents then pointed out that there is need for at least a Community Policing Group, since the Island attracts tourists, but lacks security. The need for more teachers, and better maintenance of the drains and roads was also highlighted.
Regional Executive Officer (REO), Denis Jaikaran, in responding to the raised concerns noted that the administration has identified some of these problems and is already working to address them. He added that he will soon be returning to the Island with a team to conduct a meeting with the residents in order to better understand their needs and get their input in what plans are currently being drafted for the community.
In closing, the Minister noted that it is the government's aim to provide a better life for all citizens, in every area including health and education. Further, he noted that substance abuse is a major social issue countrywide and it is something that every community should work to stamp out.
The team which visited the Essequibo Island joined in a prayer ceremony with the small community of approximately 65 people, before departing.
The team also paid a short visit to the Parika health center.
