Flood waters on the floor of Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic in Virgin Gorda on Monday, November 4, 2024. Residents sprung into action to assist with the clean up. Photo: Facebook/JTV Channel 55

Mrs. Shereen D. Flax-Charles, former legislator, Virgin Gorda resident and community advocate said the roof of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic needs speedy repairs to mitigate flooding. Photo: Facebook

Minister for Health and Social Development and District Nine Representative Hon Vincent O. Wheatley said in the House of Assembly on October 18, 2024, funding for the repairs to the roof of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic was approved and is being prioritised by the Ministry of Finance. Photo: YouTube

Heavy rainfall over the weekend, a leaking roof, and a poor drainage system at the clinic reportedly caused the flooding.

Community spirit in action

Mrs Shereen D. Flax-Charles, a former legislator, Virgin Gorda resident and community advocate, told JTV Channel 55 on Monday, “I really want to commend at this time the residents of Virgin Gorda for answering the call for wet vacuums that are able to pull the water out.”

She added that the Chairman of the BVI Health Services Authority Board Mr Ron R. Potter and CEO Dr June M Samuel were also quick in responding after being reached out to.

Following the clean up and the clinic being allowed to dry out, it was opened to the public offering all of its services.

Roof repairs need

Speaking on behalf of the Virgin Gorda community, Mrs Flax-Charles said the recent flooding highlights the need for speedy repairs to the roof.

“It is essential that funds are sought and appropriated for the repair of the roof of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic and wherever else in the healthcare system throughout the Territory that needs repairs...that it is essential that funds are appropriated for such.”

While flooding in the sister island is not new, as Mrs Flax-Charles said she herself saw some water entering her own home due to the heavy and continuous rainfall, she insisted that a medical facility such as the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic should be “watertight”.

Funds approved for repairs

Meanwhile, Minister for Health and Social Development and Ninth District Representative Hon Vincent O. Wheatley said in the House of Assembly on October 18, 2024, “Funding for the repairs to the roof of the second floor was approved in the most recent Supplementary Appropriations passed in this House.”

Hon Wheatley said that the repairs are currently being prioritised by the Ministry of Finance and it is expected to be “initiated in the coming weeks”.

He added that these roof repairs to the second floor will also facilitate the expansion of services offered there.