On Jan. 7, the contract for construction of the new Micoud Wellness Centre was signed heralding an improvement in healthcare services for residents of Micoud and neighbouring communities.

The construction of the Wellness Centre is being funded and implemented through the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP) which aims to build Saint Lucia’s resilience to climate change effects.

In keeping with the latest trends in global healthcare, the new facility will focus on wellness, preventative care and early interventions.

Hon. Dr. Gale Rigobert, Parliamentary Representative for the Micoud (north) constituency, and Minister for Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development, said: “The emphasis on wellness and preventative care is central to this Wellness Centre and undergirds health services nationally, as well. Community healthcare is very much a feature of our national culture, especially in the rural areas. It is what we rely on and we have a cadre of health service providers in the village that we can boast of.”

The 4,000 square foot modern facility will feature a triage, nurses’ station, pharmacy service area, dental services, auxiliary water supply, generator house and is climate controlled to effectively deliver health services. The facility is compliant with global standards for healthcare delivery and is designed to withstand climate change impacts, including stronger hurricanes and more frequent flood and drought events.

Hon. Guy Joseph, Minister for Economic Development, Transport and Civil Aviation under who the DVRP falls, as well as Hon. Dr. Gale Rigobert, were integral in bringing the project to this stage and were present at the contract signing. Minister Joseph described the project as one that would be welcomed by the community and said that it was long overdue. He complimented Dr. Rigobert on her commitment to the project and the people of Micoud.

Dr. Rigobert expressed equal gratitude to Minister Joseph, the Ministry for Economic Development and other stakeholders who have been instrumental in ensuring that the project comes to life.

“I am relieved that we’ve been able to sign off on this project today, which means that we should see blocks going up shortly, and anticipate a ribbon cutting ceremony soon! I wish to thank the community of Micoud for their patience, perseverance and understanding over the last few years. For me, this is the best start to 2020–the people of Micoud will finally have a wellness centre.”

Dr. Rigobert also thanked the dedicated healthcare professionals of the present Micoud Health Centre for their unwavering commitment to service notwithstanding the challenging circumstances.

At the contract signing Mr. Ned Sammuel, Managing Director of Mega Contracting Inc. (which was awarded the contract following a competitive bidding process) reiterated the significance of the project and pledged the company’s commitment to delivering the project on time and within budget, while providing meaningful employment and economic opportunities for the community. He emphasized that the majority of labour for the project will come from Micoud.

As part of the ongoing commitment to keep residents informed on the project, a community meeting was held on Jan. 8 at the Micoud Secondary School. There, more details about the construction were provided and an update given on compensation for the existing structure on site. Dr. Rigobert stated that Micoud residents will be “meaningfully engaged” in the project and urged residents in attendance to express their interest in employment opportunities.

Further to the evident benefit of having a healthcare facility upon the completion of the project, the economic benefit to the community during the construction phase is expected to be significant.