The senior homes on Tortola and Virgin Gorda will soon get emergency work to repair damage sustained during the passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria.

The repairs, which are being funded by the Pan American Health Organisation’s Health Emergency Department, will seek to achieve “Smart Health Care Facilities” standards, thereby reducing operating costs and making the facilities safer for residents and staff, according to Government Information Services.

PAHO awarded a $292,607.78 contract to Quality Construction Ltd. on Dec. 18 to replace and strengthen the buildings’ roofs and to install energy-efficient fixtures and fittings, improved lighting, and water-efficient toilets and faucets.

A $95,457.51 contract also was awarded to Construction Engineering Systems Ltd. on Jan. 5 for repairs to the senior home on Virgin Gorda, according to GIS.

Meanwhile, PAHO has agreed to purchase material worth $76,019.32 from Clarence Thomas Ltd. for both facilities.

Health and Social Development Minister Ronnie Skelton explained that the elderly homes had been identified as priorities in the recovery process.

“The Adina Donovan Home and the elderly home on Virgin Gorda were both significantly affected by the impacts from hurricanes Irma and Maria. We were pleased to receive PAHO’s support in repairing these facilities,” he said. “The residents are some of the most vulnerable, and we urgently appealed for assistance to ensure that they remained safe.”

PAHO Principal Consultant Ronnie Lettsome is overseeing the works to ensure that they meet safety standards, according to GIS.

The repairs on both facilities are expected to be completed by the end of next month. PAHO — which has pledged more than $1 million toward accomplishing the Ministry of Health Recovery Action Plan — has also committed to providing equipment and supplies for the homes, according to GIS.

{fcomment}