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The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), is advancing preparations for the introduction of the new Mental Health Bill in Antigua and Barbuda.

Ahead of its presentation to Parliament, the Ministry has commenced a series of public consultations to ensure broad stakeholder engagement.

The PAHO mission team, comprising Dr. Soumitra Pathare, Dr. Taraleen Malcom, and Felicia Carter met with the Minister of Health, the Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph, and the Minister of State within the Ministry, the Hon. Senator Michael Joseph.

Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kamaria DeCastro, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph, Principal Nursing Officer (Ag.) Clarissa Christopher, and other senior technical officers. On Friday, September 12, 2025, the team also held discussions with key stakeholders in the mental health sector.

As part of their mission, the delegation toured the proposed site for the new psychiatric hospital and offered technical recommendations for its development.

To further inform and engage the public, a series of media interviews were scheduled. ABS hosted the group on Friday.

They appeared on the Browne and Browne Show on PointeFM on Saturday, September 13 at 6pm. On Sunday, September 14, they appeared on WTP with Darren Matthew Ward at 12:30 pm.

The Ministry of Health encourages all members of the public to tune in, participate, and share their perspectives as the consultations on the Mental Health Bill progress.