The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has launched its Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), specifically for the Hospital Project.
Launched on Tuesday 4 August, the GRM is a formal system designed to provide community members, workers, businesses, contractors, and other stakeholders with a transparent, accessible, and confidential process for raising concerns, submitting complaints, and providing feedback related to the project.
The Ministry says it recognizes the importance of
maintaining open communication with surrounding communities and ensuring that concerns are
addressed promptly and fairly.
Speaking on the GRM, Permanent Secretary (Ag), Mrs. Viona Alexander-Smith noted that the successful delivery of this hospital depends not only on engineering excellence and construction progress, but also on maintaining the trust and confidence of the communities served. She said this Grievance Redress Mechanism is important in engendering that trust.
The GRM forms a key component of the project’s stakeholder engagement strategy and reflects its commitment to accountability, transparency, and community partnership.
The GRM is being led by Community Liaison Officer, Ms. Marguerite Joseph.
Commenting on the Mechanism, Ms. Joseph said the GRM provides a clear pathway for people to raise concerns and receive timely responses. She also encouraged stakeholders to use this mechanism whenever they have questions, concerns, or suggestions.
According to a press release, the new hospital represents a significant investment in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure and future health outcomes. While the project is expected to bring substantial long-term benefits, project leaders acknowledge that construction activities may occasionally generate concerns or impact community members in various ways.
Complaints or concerns may be submitted anonymously and will be handled confidentially. The project is committed to ensuring that no individual experiences retaliation for raising a concern in good faith.
Once received, grievances will be recorded, assessed, and investigated where necessary. Complainants will receive acknowledgement of their submission and updates throughout the resolution process. The project team will work to resolve issues fairly, efficiently, and in accordance with established procedures.
Feedback from the public will help ensure that the hospital is delivered in a manner that is responsive to community needs and concerns.
The New Hospital Project is a major national infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving access to modern, resilient, and high-quality healthcare services. Upon completion, the facility will provide enhanced clinical services, improved patient care environments, advanced medical technology, and increased capacity to meet the healthcare needs of current and future generations.