The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced that the official Opening and Dedication Ceremony of the New Peebles Hospital will be held Wednesday, December 17 at the Hospital Grounds.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton is extending an invitation to all residents of the Virgin Islands to share in celebrating the tremendous accomplishment for the healthcare system of the Virgin Islands.

The ceremony is slated to begin promptly at 10:30 a.m. and will be broadcast live on several radio stations including ZBVI on 780 am station, ZCCR 94.1 fm station, ZVCR 106.9 fm station, and ZROD 103.7 fm station.

The seven floor structure is 151,000 square feet and will accommodate 120 beds. It features three operating theaters, one procedure room, and three labour and delivery rooms.

During the handover ceremony of the New Peebles Hospital in October, 2013, Minister Skelton noted that the external works were completed to a high standard and that the facility is on par with any of the high quality healthcare institutions in other parts of the world. In addition, he stated that the new modern hospital, along with the proposed Virgin Gorda Medical Centre, and the planned renovation and expansion of community clinics are the infrastructural component of the Government's holistic National Health Strategy.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aims to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for sustainable human development.