The Leader of the Anguilla Progressive Movement – Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon – Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster, has thrown his support behind the Government and the Health Authority in their efforts to prevent the entry and spread of the coronvirus on the island. He stressed that fighting against the virus was beyond politics and called on all persons to unite against the invasive disease.
“The Government must show that they have the resolve, the foresight and the determination to act decisively and in our best interest,” he stated. “On a personal level, I am more than willing to participate and to do whatever it takes on behalf of our people. If there is one issue that must unite us, it is this one. We have to protect our people and keep them healthy.
“I spoke to the Minister of Health [Mr. Evans Rogers] today, and other stakeholders, and pledged my support as a medical professional, and as a political leader, to help tackle this challenge. The challenge of the coronavirus goes beyond politics and we cannot let politics divide us in this instance. It is a matter of our people’s health and we must give it the attention it deserves: all our interest and all our energy to reducing the spread of the virus here in our beloved island. As a party, the Anguilla Progressive Movement stands ready and steadfast to play its part in securing our people whether out of off and when in office.
“We recognise that it is a time of challenge and crisis – not just for Anguilla but for the world. I know that some of us have family members in countries where the coronavirus has spread, and we must be concerned about their well-being. We are entering what will be a stressful time for many Anguillians and my heart goes out to everyone affected. So I encourage you to listen to the health professionals who are asking you to be vigilant; to wash your hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand sanitiser; to avoid touching your eyes, your nose and your mouth; to cover your coughs and your sneezes; clean and disinfect surfaces frequently and thoroughly; avoid sick people; and do not go to work if you are feeling ill; call your doctor to see if you need to be seen or to be hospitalised.
“This will be a challenging time – but it is time for us to support one another and put our trust in each other. This is an opportunity for us to come together and, as a nation, to look out for each other. We must also be mindful of the need of our families, friends or neighbours who may be particularly vulnerable – especially those who are elderly. Now is the time to show generosity. It has always defined Anguillians at our very best.
“Now is the time for public policy, laws and decisions that reflect care and concern for the well-being of our people. In the medium term, we are satisfied that now, more than ever, the Anguilla Progressive Movement is the team and has the right vision for our healthcare system. [This is] by upgrading the facilities at the hospital; by assisting on a higher quality of care including specialty care; and by developing a comprehensive national health insurance scheme.
“A Government, which I lead, shall become the Government that improves healthcare…for all in this country. We need a national healthcare system that benefits our people now in these modern times. So it is not enough to say you have experience. You have to have good judgment – and you have to care. You must also have a fundamental change to govern this nation – and that is the Anguilla Progressive Movement.”
Dr. Webster, injecting a political twist in his discourse at the APM’s public meeting in Sandy Ground, over the past weekend, added: ‘Change can’t wait’ is not an idle political slogan. It is a statement about the urgency of the need for action – whether it is in accessible affordable healthcare; clean renewable energy; or a tax system that will lower the cost of living. ‘Change can’t wait’ speaks to the need to enhance our education system – to better prepare our children for new emerging job markets and challenges of life. ‘Change can’t wait’ speaks to the need to overhaul our infrastructure; to construct new buildings; and build new roads thus paving the way for the future. ‘Change can’t wait’ speaks to the need to add new layers to the national economy – to protect our tourism sector; to diversify the new areas; to address food security. ‘Change can’t wait’ speaks to changing people’s lives in a fundamental way for the better in a sustainable future. ‘Change can’t wait’ speaks to improving our financial services and making greater investment in fishing and agriculture. That is why I am excited about this platform we have brought to you.”
