Brasso waits on health centre opening

THE EDITOR: Brasso  Seco, Paria and Mt La Croix residents are forgotten by the North West Regional Health Authority. Brasso Seco, 28.4 km, and Mt La Croix, 25.5 km, are two rustic communities situated in the valleys of the northern range from the Borough of Arima through the Blanchisseuse/Arima Main Road. Their locations are in the heart of the woodland where ravines flow from the raised hills through mini waterfalls and trickle among their stony paths.

These two rustic communities are partially forgotten by the powers that be as their new health centre has not been open officially. The reason for the delay is yet to be ascertained. Driving through the area visitors can experience the contrast of the mountain forest, hand-dug narrow curved road, abandoned cocoa and coffee estates to the top of the mountain. Then proceeding east along the verdant hills into Brasso Seco Paria main road to the village which is settled amongst bananas, cocoa and coffee plantations. The Ministry of Health — North West Regional Health Authority (MOH/NWRHA) is the main provider of primary health care to two hundred residents. Unfortunately, a new health centre constructed over two years ago which replaced the old one has not been commissioned officially. This new facility is equipped with modern equipment for use by the medical staff including an exercising machine for use by clients of Brasso Seco and Mt La Croix. The residents are concerned with the long delay in commissioning that ultra modern facility by officialdom. NWRHA officials commissioned health centres that were renovated or built in urban and suburban areas. When it comes to rural communities those urban folks do not care much about rustic folks. The health centre may be considered an icon by residents, but due to not having an official opening makes them feel they are not part of this majestic land.

DOMINIC SALVARY
Champs Fleurs