Governor General Swears-In Members of the Assessment Board to Review Compensation for the Cancer Centre Acquisition
Yesterday, the Assessment Board appointed under the Land Acquisition Act, Chapter 233 was officially sworn in to oversee the valuation and compensation process regarding the Government’s compulsory acquisition of the Cancer Centre Eastern Caribbean.
The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda at Government House.
The Board is chaired by Her Ladyship Hon Justice Nicola P. Byer, with Mr. Vernon Bird, former Chief Surveyor for the Government, serving as the Government-appointed member.
Mr. James Bristol KC, a distinguished attorney-at-law from Grenada, was sworn in virtually as the nominee representing the property’s majority owner.
The Board has been constituted in accordance with Section 12 of the Land Acquisition Act, which mandates the appointment of a three-member panel to determine fair compensation when there is a dispute regarding the valuation of land acquired for public use.
This follows the Government’s compulsory acquisition of the Cancer Centre, a move aimed at facilitating its reopening to address urgent national and regional healthcare needs.
In his remarks, His Excellency the Governor General underscored the critical role of the Board in ensuring that the assessment process is transparent, fair, and guided by legal and valuation principles.
He noted that the resolution of this matter will not only impact the future of healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda but will also reinforce the integrity of the land acquisition process.
The Government has invoked Section 3 of the Act, citing the Cancer Centre’s reopening as a matter of public interest, given the increasing demand for cancer treatment services across the Eastern Caribbean.
The Board will now proceed with its independent review to determine appropriate compensation in keeping with the rules outlined in Section 19 of the Act.
The Assessment Board is expected to begin its deliberations as soon as possible, with all parties committed to an expedient and just resolution.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/03/05/governor-general-swears-in-members-of-the-assessment-board-to-review-compensation-for-the-cancer-centre-acquisition. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Nicholas Leads APUA Delegation to Regional Water Conference
Discussions in Grenada focus on water security, climate resilience and sustainable utility services across the Caribbean.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Antigua and Barbuda to Host Caribbean Tourism Conference in 2027
Regional tourism leaders will gather from October 4–8 as the destination prepares to host CTO’s flagship industry forum.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
National Health Insurance Could Become Reality by 2028 as Antigua and Barbuda Relaunches Universal Health Coverage Programme
Government advances plans for a National Health Insurance Programme aimed at making essential healthcare more accessible and affordable while reducing the financial burden on households.
By Cory Wayland
WATCH:Appeal for Information After Alleged Attempt to Snatch Necklace on All Saints Road
Circulating appeal says a man’s necklace broke and fell to the ground during the incident near the credit union.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (1)
Juju Bee March 5, 2025, 7:50 AM