Damion Mitchell, Gleaner Reporter
LOCAL GOVERNMENT Minister Portia Simpson Miller has emphasised the need for the country to continue its advocacy for a new international order on health.
According to Mrs. Simpson Miller, international agencies, which influence scientific research and technological development, must be rallied to change the status quo with regard to health.
Speaking on the weekend at the inaugural fund-raising dinner of the Jamaica Osteoporosis Society at the Hilton Hotel in New Kingston, Mrs. Simpson Miller said in 1998 global spending on health research was US$70 billion, with 100 million being dedicated to malaria research and 300 million for HIV research.
But she said the reallocation of just one per cent of global spending on health research would provide an additional US$700 million to address current problems.
"Consider the fact that nearly one billion people do not have access to safe drinking water, 2.4 billion are without access to basic sanitation and 11 million children under age five die each year from preventable diseases and that is equivalent to more than 30,000 children per day, " said Mrs. Simpson Miller.
She also urged local political leaders to protect the health sector as much as they try to protect the macro economy, despite limited resources and crucial demands.
During the function, an emotional Dr. Winston Clarke, radiologist, was awarded by the society for his contribution to the health profession since 1971.
"I feel rather special to know that I have been considered for this award," said Dr. Clarke as his voice waned and tears rolled down his cheeks.
"There is nothing greater than recognition from your friends, and I thank you all."
