In a developing administrative conflict, a physician previously terminated for COVID-19 vaccine refusal finds himself barred from practicing medicine despite official reinstatement by the new government. The case highlights systemic obstacles undermining the New Democratic Party’s pledge to reemploy dismissed public sector workers.
The physician, practicing in Mespo, had enthusiastically resumed duties following the reversal of the previous administration’s vaccine mandate policy. However, Ministry of Health authorities subsequently issued directives prohibiting him from treating patients, creating a paradoxical situation where he receives salary payments but remains unable to perform medical duties.
Public Service Union President Elroy Boucher revealed these developments during a Boom FM interview, identifying this case as emblematic of broader implementation failures. Numerous reinstated workers across the public sector have reported similar experiences of being turned away from their positions despite official policy changes.
The administrative impasse appears rooted in inter-ministerial coordination challenges. Health officials cited the Finance Ministry’s failure to release the physician’s post as the primary obstruction, creating bureaucratic limbo for reinstated personnel.
Contradictory reports emerge regarding the scale of affected workers. While Attorney General Louise Mitchell claimed only eight public servants remained to be reinstated, Boucher contends at least 44 workers were still awaiting actual return to duties as of last weekend. The union leader reported unsuccessful attempts to verify figures through official channels, including the Chief Personnel Officer’s office.
The situation presents a significant governance challenge for the administration, which had prominently featured reinstatement promises during its election campaign. The gap between policy announcement and practical implementation continues to affect both healthcare delivery and workforce stability in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ public sector.