The Government of Mexico, last Thursday, delivered two of the three promised projects that are part of the reconstruction of the St. Jude Hospital—a morgue building, and a security monitoring and ambulance building.
In her address, Ambassador Socorra Flores Liera, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mexico for Latin America and the Caribbean said the quality of the components completed so far, is commendable.
“These components have been gladly supported by Mexico based on the firm conviction of the benefit they represent for the people of Saint Lucia,” Minister Liera said. “We want to thank the government for all of its efforts to give the people a stronger and more efficient healthcare system. I also what to congratulate St. Jude Hospital personnel, as well as the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for ensuring transparency during the process both in terms of budget and time. I have had the opportunity to look around the morgue component, and the quality of the project speaks of the good job they have done.”
Minister for Economic Development, Hon. Guy Joseph, said the projects cost a total of US$2.7 million. He also lauded the UNOPS for its professionalism, workmanship and efficient project management.
“Today we are here to mark the handing over of the ambulance facility and the morgue. The reality is, this is the component of the hospital that was not funded at the time when they were engaged, and we are happy that the Government of Mexico through UNOPS came on board in implementing this phase of the project. They may have been the last set of persons to come on board, but they have been the first to deliver.”
During his address, Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet, thanked the government and people of Mexico for their generosity to Saint Lucia while providing the reassurance that the government is focused on delivering the St. Jude Hospital in the soonest possible time.
“I stand here today to acknowledge the progress of the St. Jude Hospital reconstruction project. It is no secret that this project has tested the extreme patience of our nation, and while I must beg for more tolerance from the good people of this country, I also have good news, thanks to the generosity of the people and Government of Mexico for taking on the construction of the ambulance and security, and the morgue buildings, and for facilitating the external area lighting. We understand and appreciate the importance of partners who continue to support our efforts to guarantee top class healthcare.”
Governor General of Saint Lucia, Dame Pearlette Louisy and Ambassador Socorro Flores Liera unveiled the plaques on the security monitoring and ambulance building, and the morgue. They were accompanied by the Prime Minister, other government ministers and specially invited guests.
