Prime Minister and Minister of Health the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis accepted a donation of face shields to be used by healthcare workers on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19, during a special presentation at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday 29 May.
The donation by CIBC FirstCaribbean is part of $25,000 worth of PPE produced by local manufacturer The SignMan to help the Ministry of Health meet the critical needs of the healthcare work force.
“The face shields will be distributed to healthcare workers on New Providence, Grand Bahama and throughout the Family Islands through our central supply agency,” said Prime Minister Minnis. “Thank you for this generous donation. It comes at a critical time and I assure that it will be put to good use.”
Mrs. Marie Rodland-Allen, CIBC FirstCaribbean Managing Director, said: “We recognize the essential role of frontline medical professionals in maintaining a strong healthcare system. In hospitals, clinics, and homes around The Bahamas, these individuals unwaveringly continue to care for patients. Aware of the risks presented, the face shields donated are for their added protection as they continue to defend the health and safety of our country. Healthcare workers have our deepest gratitude and admiration.”
The Prime Minister encouraged local manufacturers like The SignMan to find new ways to meet the demand for PPEs and other products that may open up new markets that last beyond the COVID-19 outbreak.
The SignMan currently produces two varieties of face shields – medical grade and non-medical – and is working on a third prototype, said Ms. Patricia Cleare General Manager Operations of The SignMan.
To meet the demand for face masks, hand sanitizer and cleaning disinfectants, a number of local manufacturers have adjusted their business models.
The Government has banned the importation of non-medical face masks to support the fast-growing local industry.
From left: Mr. Audley Bain, Deputy Director, Supply Management Agency, Public Hospitals Authority; Ms. Patricia Cleare, General Manager Operations, The SignMan; Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis; and Mrs. Marie Rodland-Allen, CIBC FirstCaribbean Managing Director. (Photo: OPM Communications Unit)
Ms. Patricia Cleare, General Manager Operations, The SignMan explains difference between the medical and non-medical grade face shields manufactured by The SignMan. (Photo: OPM Communications Unit)