I am deeply saddened to learn of the untimely deaths of four babies at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital over a one month period. As a parent, I can understand the pain and grief currently being faced by these families.

I have spoken to the Chairman of the South Eastern Regional Health Authority, Mr. Philip Armstrong under which the Victoria Jubilee Hospital is managed. In light of this unfortunate situation, we have established a committee which he will chair  to investigate this matter. The team which includes the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Elaine Foster Allen, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Winston De La Haye and SERHA’s Regional Director Ms. Maureen Golding will investigate the circumstances that led to these deaths and recommend any procedural actions that could have prevented this unfortunate situation.

I have asked that this report  be ready  within a week and I will ensure that it is shared with the public to ensure transparency and to maintain confidence in the Jamaican public health system.

Any loss of life in the public health system particularly among infants and babies merits our full attention. I will ensure that we dedicate every resource at our disposal to ensure that we understand the reasons for these untimely deaths and take all steps to prevent them from happening again in the future.