BASSETERRE, St Kitts – PRIME Minister Dr Terrance Drew announced in an address to the nation this morning that doctors have cleared him to return to work following his recent health scare.
Dr Drew was diagnosed with a stroke after feeling unwell and spending hours under observation at the Joseph N France General Hospital. He was later flown overseas for medical treatment.
In his address he said he has since completed both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and is “doing well.”
“I also want to confirm that I visited the doctors again today and I was given an excellent bill of health. And I was told that I am fit to return to full duty. This experience, as is obvious, has been a trial, but it has also been a testimony,” Dr Drew said.
He called the experience a testimony to the power of God and said he is ready to serve and resume full-time duties.
With a clean bill of health given, Dr Drew's first major assignment will be a trip to Washington, DC, for an important U.S.-Caribbean dialogue on October 15.
“This meeting presents a valuable opportunity to engage directly with senior United States officials on matters that are important to our Federation, including energy security, economic investment, national security, healthcare, and opportunities for all of our people. I consider my personal participation especially important,” Dr Drew said.
He added that the groundwork for several meaningful partnerships has already been laid, “and I want to ensure continuity in those discussions, strengthen the relationships we have built, and advance commitments that can bring real benefits to our country.”
The prime minister also spoke directly to citizens about the pressures facing the country. “These have been trying times, and there are days when trying times might affect our hope,” he said. “But know this, I see you, I hear you, and I carry your burdens and challenges, hopes and dreams in my heart.”
He acknowledged that the road ahead will not always be smooth, but said he has “deep unshakeable faith” in the people of the Federation.
To those who feel discouraged or forgotten by politics, systems and institutions, he said: “I do not dismiss that. I do not take it lightly. I want to say to you to be strong and hold strong."
Dr Drew then outlined progress on the government’s priorities. On food security, he said the Greenhouse Village Initiative is growing. “We must feed ourselves. We must reduce our dependence on others. We must stand on our own two feet.”
On energy, he said the 50-megawatt solar project is already under way and geothermal development in Nevis is the most advanced it has ever been. “This is not just about energy. It is about our country’s future. It is about our children’s future."
The desalination plant is delivering, he said, and the country has surpassed its goal of 24-hour water access for 70 percent of the population.
In education, construction of the Basseterre High School is well under way. “Our children deserve a place to learn that is worthy of their potential,” he said.
