IN honour of retired Chairperson of the Cheshire Home, Joan Rodrigues, the Ministry of Health’s Disabilities and Rehabilitation Services has named a wing after her.
The Cheshire Home, which is located at Mahaica, Region Four, provides care and rehabilitation services for persons living with mental, physical, or learning disabilities and is managed by a Management Committee and the Ministry of Health.

According to a release from the Ministry of Health, Rodrigues joined the management committee in 1999 and was subsequently appointed a Trustee. She was later appointed chairperson in 2003.

Newly appointed Chairperson, Kalima Ali-Jagnarine, commended Rodrigues for her efforts and collaboration with donors and supporters with whom she undertook major projects for the organisation.

“She always ensured that employees were rewarded for their hard work and that the residents were well cared for. Joan has served with honour and dedication”, the chairperson said.
Meanwhile, Adviser to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, said that the health sector is “grateful” for persons like Rodrigues who have no hesitation in dedicating their time to helping others.

Speaking on the Minister of Health’s behalf, Dr. Ramsammy said that Dr. Frank Anthony is committed to ensuring that health institutions deliver the highest level of care and service.
The Health Adviser said that involvement of the private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is critical and therefore collaboration is always welcome by the ministry.
“The Ministry of Health (MoH) is committed towards building partnerships with the private sector, NGOs and others who are interested in helping people with disability,” Dr. Ramsammy stated.

Director of the Disabilities and Rehabilitation Services, Dr. Ariane Mangar, who led the team in the commissioning of the new wing, expressed gratitude to Rodrigues for her service on the organisation’s management committee for over 25 years.