Taiwanese company to head construction of new hospital at Arnos Vale

On July 26, government signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Taiwanese company OECC to begin the construction of a new Modern Acute Care Hospital at Arnos Vale.

Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Fiona Fan, witnessed the signing ceremony, along with Minister of Health St. Clair Prince, Minister of Education Curtis King, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Cuthbert Knights and Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Simone Keizer-Beache.

Speaking at the signing ceremony held in the Cabinet Room, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said he looked forward to the work of hospital being completed in less than 32 months from the
commencement of construction. PM Gonsalves also thanked Taiwan for the rapid mobilization of OECC’s team, and for providing soft loans to meet the urgent needs of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

During her remarks, Ambassador Fan said she viewed the construction of the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital as a testament to Taiwan’s mutual commitment with SVG to the health and well-
being of Vincentian people. She emphasized that infrastructure development as one of the pillars of the bilateral relationship.

“This new hospital creates another shining example following the resounding success of Rabacca Bridge, National Library, and the terminal building of Argyle International Airport,” Ambassador Fan said.

She also said she anticipated that the dedicated team of OECC will collaborate with local workers for the hospital’s completion.

Health Minister Prince highlighted the importance of the new hospital, noting that it will significantly enhance SVG’s ability to respond to major public health challenges and improve resilience of climate change. He also extended his gratitude to the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

The Embassy noted the Taiwanese Company, the Overseas Engineering Construction Co. (OECC) is a global construction firm with extensive experience in building major infrastructure projects.

“OECC has provided high-quality services in the past in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and has recently completed hospital projects in the region. OECC prioritizes employing local workers, aiming to create job opportunities and assist in training skilled labors within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Adhering to this mission, OECC plans to employ both skilled and non-skilled local labors, for the construction of Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital in SVG.”

The release from the Embassy also said the new medical facility will provide specialized services in
cardiology, dialysis, and urology.

“The Milton Cato Memorial Hospital will be transformed into a maternal child and health center once the state-of-the-art Acute Care Hospital is opened.”

Source: Taiwan Embassy