MINISTER of Health Dr Frank Anthony on Monday commissioned a water ambulance and a boathouse totalling $24 million at Supenaam, Region Two.

Dr Anthony was at the time wrapping up a one-day visit to the region.

While noting that the water ambulance is the newest addition to the region’s fleet of health boats, he pointed out that the ministry is aiming to expand and improve the delivery of health in Essequibo. As such, the water ambulance is a necessity for the region.

He said that boat will provide services to riverain communities, including the Supenaam Creek.

According to Dr Anthony, the boat has the capacity to transport patients in emergency situations to Parika.

Meanwhile, Regional Health Officer, Dr Ranjeev Singh, said that the boat will also be available to assist the people of Region Three and neighbouring areas.

He said that when patients in emergency situations cannot be air-dashed to a medical facility, the boat will be used to transport them.

Dr Singh added that given the presence of the new water ambulance, the response to emergency cases will be quicker.

Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva in her remarks said that the region is very thankful for the water ambulance.