In a significant policy shift, Trinidad and Tobago’s Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe has committed to reevaluating the ministry’s stance regarding a pivotal 2023 High Court ruling concerning state support for children disabled by the Zika virus. This development follows public appeals from the Zika Foundation of TT and affected families.
The case centers around Davyn Ragoo, born in February 2017 with microcephaly resulting from Zika virus infection. In May 2023, High Court Judge Joan Charles delivered a landmark 34-page judgment upholding a judicial review lawsuit filed by Davyn’s mother, Kavita Ramkissoon-Ragoo. The ruling declared that the State had failed in its constitutional duty to provide adequate support and specialized healthcare for disabled children, specifically violating Section 4(a) of the Constitution guaranteeing the right to life.
Justice Charles’s judgment mandated several immediate actions: provision of urgent specialized healthcare for Davyn, financial assistance to the family, implementation of proper disability management protocols within three months, and payment of damages including aggravated damages for constitutional rights violations.
The previous Health Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh, had announced intentions to appeal the judgment but reportedly took no subsequent action. Families affected by Zika-related birth defects reported receiving none of the court-ordered compensation or support services.
Dr. Karen Sohan, head of the Zika Foundation, emphasized that affected families seek not financial assistance but practical support measures. “These are modest needs,” she noted, “but they carry immense significance in easing daily burdens and preserving dignity” for families caring for children who cannot walk or talk.
Minister Bodoe responded via WhatsApp message, stating: “The health and well-being of our nation’s children remains very high on the agenda of this government and the Honourable Prime Minister. I will review this matter with the legal team to determine whether any further course of action is indicated.” His statement referenced the recent rededication of the Couva Children’s Hospital as evidence of the government’s commitment to children’s healthcare.