By RASHAD ROLLE
Tribune Staff Reporter
rrolle@tribunemedia.net
ENVIRONMENT and Housing Minister Kenred Dorsett yesterday said his ministry is addressing the appearance of hazardous medical waste found at the New Providence Landfill.
His statement followed a Nassau Guardian report that said an investigation was being made by Renew Bahamas officials to find out how biohazardous waste, said to originate from the Princes Margaret Hospital, made it to the landfill’s site.
The material, according to the report, was said to include AIDS and hepatitis waste that was not incinerated before it was brought to the site.
“The public is advised that the relevant agencies of the Ministry of the Environment and Housing are aware of the issue detailed in the Nassau Guardian morning daily concerning the appearance of hazardous medical waste at the New Providence Landfill,” Mr Dorsett said in a statement yesterday.
“We understand the danger that such occurrences pose to the workers and those who frequent the landfill and to the general public. This matter has been brought to the attention of the Princess Margaret Hospital and is being addressed.”
He added: “It should be noted by all that there is established protocol in the country for the disposal of medical and hazardous waste that should be followed by all medical facilities, private and public. The proper disposal of medical waste is for the protection of everyone in the country. My ministry does not take these matters lightly.”
“I admonish everyone who needs to dispose of medical or hazardous waste to contact the Department of Environmental Health Services (DEHS) to ensure that it is done properly. Hazardous waste includes such items as car and cell phone batteries, chemicals, used syringes, the carcasses of deceased animals, etc. We must all work together to ensure that The Bahamas has a clean and safe environment for our enjoyment and that of future generations.”
Officials from the Public Hospitals Authority refused to comment when contacted by The Tribune on the matter yesterday.
Comments
ThisIsOurs 7 years, 9 months ago
This seems kinda weird. Renew has been there for two(?) years? The hospital must dispose of waste pretty regularly, at least once a week, and over an extended period only one report? "If" it came from PMH, it wouldn't appear to be a practice, once would be enough though.
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