Social Justice, Equity, and Empowerment Minister Joachim Henry is said to be in “better spirits” and on sick leave after being hospitalised Sunday. That’s according to Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire, and Health Minister Moses Jn Baptiste.
The three-spoke briefly about Henry’s condition at a press conference on Monday; Hilaire noted that Henry was taken to Tapion Hospital first for an examination, and then to Martinique for further assessment.
“The reports are that he’s in much better spirits. I can’t give you the details on (his) medical condition per say; what I’m aware of is that he was feeling very unwell (and) he was taken to Tapion Hospital. He was assessed and the decision was taken that he probably should go to Martinique to do some further tests (and) ensure that there was nothing serious which he did. He’s presently in Martinique,” Hilaire told reporters on Monday.
“I’ve not gotten any formal update this morning, but colleagues who spoke with him said that he was in good spirits; all precautions will be taken to ensure that he is taken care of. Of course, we ask for everyone’s support at this time and prayers for him and his family. His family is certainly very involved in ensuring that he gets all the attention,” Hilaire added.
Though there has been much speculation as to what transpired, including rumors of a heart attack, Hilaire told reporters he refuses to speculate on the matter.
“I cannot tell you and I won’t speculate. I know he was at the prime minister’s cocktail on Saturday night and that’s as much as I can say,” Hilaire said.
Health Minister Jn Baptiste stated that “a number of medical investigations are being carried out.”
“We do not know exactly up to this point what is happening, but we know that he is being cared for by medical professionals in Martinique. I don’t know any more than that. We will be updated sometime this morning and I am sure you will get information, but our prayers are with Hon. Joachim Henry and his family. We wish him strength and a speedy recovery,” Jn Baptiste said.
Prime Minister Pierre yesterday told reporters that Henry “had some tests done so he is resting,” adding that he hopes Henry will be back soon.
“In the meantime, he is on sick leave, medical leave,” Pierre said.
Henry’s illness was confirmed on Sunday, March 5, after a press release surfaced on the internet.
“Hon. Joachim Henry has requested that the nation keeps him and his family in their prayers during this period. The Government of Saint Lucia will provide further updates as soon as we can confirm his condition,” the release read in part. (M.A.)