Dear Editor,

It is with great sadness that I have been reading about the problems at Cornwall Regional Hospital. Things are so bad that this hospital, once touted as the best in the Caribbean, is now only operating at only 10 per cent of its capability.

I recall, as a young technician, doing work on the commissioning of part of the electrical protection system way back in 1974 and had the opportunity to tour parts of the new complex. It was indeed a fine building and had all the facilities for “one-stop” treatment.

Apparently lack of maintenance over the years precipitated this disaster, as Trump would say. I am sure if the records — if any exist — were examined one would be shocked and appalled at the neglect and dereliction of duty meted out over the years. Yet I have not heard of anyone accountable for this national disgrace. The various governments and ministers of health over the years are clearly accountable right down to the current maintenance manager.

In the interest of public accountability, and the continued and future preservation of public facilities, it is fitting that a commission of inquiry be established to determine the causes for the decline at Cornwall Regional Hospital.

Norman Lee

namronlee@rogers.com