Minister of Health Dr Leslie Ramsammy was yesterday on the ball mere hours after he returned from the USA where he was recuperating after undergoing heart surgery a few months ago.

The minister did not bother to go home after he arrived at the airport but went straight to his office. Dr Ramsammy underwent a triple bypass surgery on New Year's Day, which was the second triple bypass for the 54-year-old minister.

Speaking to the media yesterday at the launching of the Population Services International (PSI) social marketing programme at Le Meridien Pegasus Hotel, the minister said his first day at the office was busy.

Questioned why he returned to work so soon after his surgery since some suggest he should rest for a while, the minister said that he felt he was ready to resume duties.

"It is more difficult staying away, so I think the anxiety and the stress of not being here is worse than being at work."

The minister, who looked a little frail, when asked how many pounds he had lost said, "Really? I have?" and smilingly replied that he lost just about ten pounds.

The minister said there are no thoughts of him retiring. However, he will be more conscious of his health. He added that he has always been conscious of his health and was not surprised when he was forced to undergo surgery since he knew he had a problem. "I am conscious of my health problem and I will be taking good care of myself."

In his absence Public Service Minister Dr Jennifer Westford was performing Ramsammy's duties from her ministry.