Health Minister Cancer Center could resume operations Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph is hopeful that the Cancer Center Eastern Caribbean could reopen for business within the next 30 to 45 days.

The Minister admits that while the facility is now a private-sector investment following the sale last week by the government for $EC13 million, he is hoping things can return to normal as soon as possible. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has also expressed similar thoughts to the investors.

“My understanding is that the building has been purchased. There’s some equipment left in the building that might not be the best equipment at this time. Because that equipment was purchased many years ago

Joseph also pointed out that it is costing the government a significant sum to send cancer patients to Colombia in South America and other places for treatment.

In most cases, patients travel alone for treatment leaving their families behind.

He says patients are also concerned about having to travel away from their families.

“I’ve asked medical benefits to secure the services of an individual in Colombia, to receive Antiguans when they arrive in Colombia, and to be like a chaperone and make sure that they’re comfortable, make sure that all the official engagement they have, they get the assistance.