On Thursday 12th June 2025, the Communicable Diseases, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Reproductive Health & Rights Committee conducted oversight visits to the Glacis and Beau Vallon Health Facilities. This was a continuation of a visit to the Anse Royale and English River facilities on the 21st of August 2025, as part of the Committee’s commitment to strong governance and accountability. The visits were conducted by Chairperson Hon. Egbert Aglae, accompanied by Hon. Audrey Vidot, Hon. Francois Adelaide and Hon. Andy Labonte. Assistance was provided by Committee Secretary Ms. Genvieve Daniel and Assistant Secretary Ms. Petra Tirant. Also in attendance was Hon. Regina Esparon as the elected member for Glacis.
The delegation began their visit at the Glacis Clinic where the Members were met by the Nurse Manager for the North Region Ms. Valencia Joubert, the Nurse-in-Charge Ms. Christina Vidot and other respective members of staff. The delegation visited various sections of the clinic and was informed that unlike most clinics, the Glacis facility operates with doctors present only twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. This was highlighted as a major challenge affecting the clinic’s service delivery. Ms. Vidot informed the Committee that the clinic attends to approximately 2,000 patients annually. She stressed the urgent need for additional doctors, to enable the clinic to function at full capacity throughout the week. This would not only improve access to care for the community, but also alleviate pressure on the Beau Vallon Health Centre, which serves as the main health facility for the Northern Region.
At the Beau Vallon Health Centre, the Committee was again received by Ms. Joubert, alongside the Nurse-in-Charge of the Health Centre Ms. Jennifer Bristol. The Members conducted walkthroughs of various departments and held discussions with staff to gather insights on a range of issues. One key focus was on the delivery of reproductive health education in schools. It was noted that while the programme is generally well-received by students, some parents view the subject as taboo and certain teachers struggle with how best to approach it. Efforts are currently ongoing to develop improved teaching materials to make the subject more accessible and age appropriate.
Another concern raised was the high staff turnover, particularly within the pharmacy department which is affecting consistency in service delivery. Dental assistants expressed their dissatisfaction, noting that their scheme of service is yet to be reviewed, leading to feelings of being undervalued. It was also highlighted that the North Region lacks a dedicated ambulance and must rely on the Victoria Hospital’s ambulance services in emergency situations.
