Opposition Leader Edwin Astwood accused the Turks and Caicos Islands Government in Parliament of leaving healthcare workers and the public without a clear hospital transition plan. He said approximately 40 days remain on the timeline.
In his response to the Throne Speech, Astwood demanded immediate answers on the hospitals’ future, the existing contract, money reportedly owed to the provider, and what happens to medical professionals and other employees. He claimed hospital staff were not properly engaged and did not know whether they would keep their jobs. “They don’t know if they are going, if they are coming,” he said. Astwood also said several different figures have circulated over money owed, and urged Government to disclose what is claimed, disputed and payable.
He warned the hospital issue is a governance matter affecting healthcare delivery, public expenditure, borrowing and accountability. Astwood said the Opposition would scrutinise the Premier’s “golden inheritance” claims and other tests during the Throne Speech debate. Residents expect action, timelines and answers, he said.