Opposition Leader Honourable Julian Fraser wants specific details on the responsibilities of the Cuban Medical Brigade following the allocation of an additional $1.2 million to cover the expenses for hosting the team for the remainder of 2022.
The House of Assembly on Tuesday unanimously passed a Supplementary Appropriation Provision (SAP) totaling approximately $31 million.
Within that SAP, $1,230,800 was allocated towards additional funding to cover the expenditure relating to hosting the Cuban Medical Brigade for 2022.
While expressing that he is grateful for the assistance provided by the Cuban team, Fraser wants to know the exact role they play within the BVI healthcare system.
Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley during the same session of the House of Assembly, said the presence of the Cuban Medical team in the territory is critical at this time.
He said the team has been filling the present gap that exists due to a shortage of local medical staff within the BVI Health Services Authority.
In 2021, Cabinet approved $2,978,700 to pay for the services of the Cuban medical team.
The team originally came to the territory in mid- 2020 to assist the BVI in its fight against the COVID-19 virus.