Well-being of elderly residents

I refer to the letter by Prof. Godrey A. Pirotta (August 1) under the title Who Really Cares For The Elderly.

While taking the press to task for allegedly not reporting a press conference called by the spokesmen of the opposition, the writer makes a number of allegations that require clarification from this office:

1. Every effort has been made by the authorities and staff, in wards where there is no air-conditioning, to alleviate the discomfort of elderly residents. This includes the supply of beverages and ice at regular intervals, the provision of extra fans and even portable air-conditioners. There is no lack of staff in the wards concerned.

2. The works currently in hand are aimed at replacing air-conditioning systems that have been in place since 1992 and can no longer be repaired. This is definitely not ''not a late effort''. Readers will undoubtedly understand that complex air-conditioning systems are not available off the shelf. The current installation requires an investment of Lm150,000 that will be added to the long list of investments in refurbishment carried out by this government at St Vincent de Paul.

3. Let me also assure readers that matters relating to the well-being of our elderly population are considered as "real issues" by this Office and this is evidenced by facts and not mere words. While others have the option to sit on their armchairs and criticise, the government has to act. This government's track record in the field of the elderly speaks for itself.

In conclusion I cannot but reiterate once again that none of the deaths at St Vincent de Paul during the last week of June were as "a consequence of lack of proper facilities" as alleged by the writer. It is this Office's duty to reassure our elderly residents and their relatives, in the face of the scaremongering tactics, that everything possible was and is being done to safeguard their well-being.