PM to seek medical attention in Venezuela, possibly Cuba

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves left the country today, Easter Sunday to seek medical attention in Venezuela, after experiencing “an excruciating pain” on his right side on Thursday night.

Gonsalves, who was speaking on WeFM’s Issues at Hand programme today, said he was not able to sleep well on Thursday as a result of the pain, which led him to seek medical attention at the local hospital on April 15, Good Friday.

He said he was looked after well by local doctors and other health personnel but was advised to go and do a full check up.

“I did one last year in Cuba in July and I was going straight to Cuba but the Venezuelans insisted that I come there. In fact, the insistence is from the highest level so that’s where I’m going today,” the prime minister said, after indicating that he would be travelling to Venezuela and possibly Cuba for medical attention.

He added that he would likely miss the visit of Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and his wife, who are visiting Sr Vincent and the Grenadines for one day on Saturday.

Their visit is in commemoration of Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee — a celebration of her 70 years of service as Britain’s monarch.

Gonsalves said he has written a letter to the Earl, which will be transmitted by Cabinet Secretary, Kattian Barnwell.

He also noted that he has spoken with the Governor General, Dame Susan Dougan on the matter.

“So I just wanted to indicate formally. This is the only place over the weekend that I could make the information known to the public. I didn’t just want to go off and have persons hearing second hand,” the prime minister said.