Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands – The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has provided an update on the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic on Virgin Gorda following the completion of an independent environmental assessment and receipt of laboratory findings.

The assessment confirmed the presence of mold within the facility. Based on the findings and recommendations from the assessment, additional remediation work is required before the building can be cleared for occupancy. The clinic will therefore remain closed until further notice.

BVIHSA said the findings are being addressed through a planned remediation process aimed at ensuring the facility is safe and suitable for occupancy before services resume.

The next phase of work will include rebalancing the air-conditioning system and industrial remediation cleaning of the ductwork and all areas of the facility. Once the work is completed, a second environmental assessment will be conducted to determine whether the remediation has been effective and whether the building is fit for occupancy.

Despite the environmental findings, work on the clinic’s roof will move ahead as planned. Professional Roofing has been engaged to carry out the roof repairs under the management of the Ministry of Health. The roof project will proceed alongside the other required facility improvements.

BVIHSA said it recognizes the importance of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic to healthcare delivery on Virgin Gorda and the impact the continued closure may have on patients, staff and the wider community.

The Authority said it is taking a careful and measured approach to the necessary works, with the health and safety of patients and staff remaining the priority.

BVIHSA will continue to monitor the remediation and associated facility works and provide further updates as significant milestones are reached, including following the second environmental assessment.

The Authority thanked patients, staff and the Virgin Gorda community for their continued patience, understanding and cooperation while the necessary works are undertaken.