Mt Hope complex vulnerable to crime

The incident happened sometime between 8.30 pm on July 25 and 6 am on July 26.

“During the absence of security after patrols, person or persons broke in and entered the building,” he said yesterday. He said the robbery was discovered the next day and a report was made to the St Joseph Police. He said security at EWMSC also conducted enquiries. Reason said based on information he received an arrest is imminent.

Reason said because EWMSC is an open facility where many people visit for health care, the aim is to have access controls in departments and areas where authorised personnel are allowed, such as the laboratory. Last month, an EWMSC employee was stabbed to death in a washroom.

He said many areas, like the Priority Care Facility, were open and it would be difficult to restrict assess due to the service provided. Reason said it would be impractical to have security at every area given the size of the compound.

He said Allied Security Service, the new security at the complex (which started last month) was told about the importance of vigilance, constant foot patrols and keen observation to curb any incidents.

Two weeks ago, four cars were broken into at the car park of the Wendy Fitzwilliam Paediatric Hospital. In response to this Reason said 24-hour security personnel were introduced at all the car parks. He said in the past the National Maintenance Training and Security Company personnel only provided 12-hour watch. He said mobile security has also been introduced with two vehicles patrolling the compound.

Reason said close circuit television was re-activated at one of the gates of the compound. It can also record footage. The NCRHA has installed lighting at various points of the periphery of the compound.

NCRHA CEO Charles Mitchell said access to the PCF has been limited, so a group of people will not be allowed to accompany patients that are being treated. He said the number of officers at EWMSC has increased with the new security company. Reason said while the NCRHA had a responsibility in security matters, people also had to take precautions.

He said when people were at home they safeguard their premises by locking their doors and having dogs. While at EWMSC workers, patients and visitors also had to exercise caution.