The Patron of St. John Ambulance, Sub Prior Professor, Villis Marshall, and the Secretary-General PNG St. John, Douglas Kelson, are currently in the country to make a five days visit to the hospital and the government.
The members of St. John arrived in the country this morning and had their first visit today at the National Referral Hospital to hold a meeting with the heads of the hospital.Speaking with the Chief Executive Officer, Douglas Ete, said that Prof. Marshall and Mr. Kelson are in the country to establish good relationship with the government of Solomon Islands and the hospital.
Mr. Ete told Solomon Times that the PNG St. John Ambulance are keen to help the country's hospital in emergency services.
"They want to help our country contain more services in the health sector of Solomon Islands," he added.
He said that Mr. Kelson is looking at donating an ambulance for the National Referral Hospital as it is an initial dialogue.
Mr. Ete said that whatever arrangements or agreement following the visit will be done through a Memorandum of Understanding.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kelson at this morning's meeting said they will need to hear from the CEO and staff of the hospital on what they need "because we are here to help."
He said that what they have discussed today will also be relayed to the Prime Minister, Dr. Derek Sikua, and the Minister of Health, Hon. Johnson Koli.
During their stay in the country, Prof. Villis Marshall and Mr. Douglas Kelson will be having meetings with the Governor General on Sunday and on Monday with the Prime Minister and Minister of Health.