Minister of Public Service Dr. Jennifer Westford, who is also holding the office of Health Minister, said yesterday she was "pleased with the progress of work being carried out."

The US$12 million hospital is being funded by the Government of Japan and Kitano Construction Company is executing the project.

Construction is being undertaken by contractors Morico and Kudohomini in two phases, with the first phase scheduled to be completed in March 2004.

The new 120 bed hospital is located at Canje, opposite the National Psychiatric Hospital.

A reservoir is being dug to enhance the water supply at the facility.

According to the contractor, the water capacity will be approximately 10 tonnes. A 75 KVA generator is also housed at the facility as a backup in the case of blackouts.

Minister Westford who was accompanied on the visit by project coordinator for the Government of Guyana - Inter-American Development Bank Health Sector Policy and Institutional Strengthening Programme Dr. Frank Anthony and Dr. Bheri Ramsarran, also met with the interim health management committee and health staff at the New Amsterdam Hospital, when she reiterated the importance of professionalism.