Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. D. Orlando Smith, OBE and the Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton seen signing contract with Avaline Potter of A.R. Potter and Associates for the design of the New Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic. (Photo Credit: Mr. Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)

Minister Skelton told the Department of Information and Public Relations that his Ministry is putting forth a relentless effort to ensure that health and health facilities are given the priority they deserve, and that the needs of the Sister Islands’ residents are placed on an equal footing in strengthening the overall health system.

The designs for the new Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic are to be developed in consultation with the BVI Health Services Authority and the Virgin Gorda Community through a schedule of three phases, set to be completed by the end of July, 2013; and thereafter, construction is to follow.

The new health facility will be designed to accommodate an expanded range of health services; while providing a safe, pleasant and efficient environment for the patients and their relatives, as well as Community Health staff.  Once the design concepts are developed, they will be presented to the community for public input before the construction drawings are finalised.

The $334,370 contract was signed on November 30 by Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. D. Orlando Smith, OBE, and contractor Avaline Potter of A.R. Potter and Associates; witnessed by Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton and Jeremiah Frett, respectively.

The Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic operates under the management of the BVI Health Services Authority.  Its mission is to deliver excellent, compassionate, client-centered healthcare.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for sustainable human development.