The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Liberta hosted the launch of its new Mental Health Ministry on Saturday, May 17, 2025, under the theme “An Ounce of Prevention.” His Excellency Sir Clare Roberts, KCN, KC, Governor General’s Deputy of Antigua and Barbuda, delivered remarks on behalf of Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Sandra Williams.

In his address, Sir Clare praised the congregation for launching a ministry rooted in compassion and service to the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of the community. He emphasized the critical need for preventive action in addressing mental health challenges, particularly through faith-based and community-led initiatives.

A highlight of the remarks was Sir Clare’s call for the urgent passage of a new Mental Health Care Bill, which he was commissioned by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to draft. The Bill aims to replace the outdated Mental Treatment Act (Cap. 274) of 1957 and modernize the legal and institutional framework governing mental health services in Antigua and Barbuda.

“This Bill seeks to modernize our approach to mental health care and services, ensuring that the rights and dignity of persons with mental illness are not only respected but protected,” Sir Clare stated.

Key provisions of the proposed legislation include:

• Clear criteria for determining mental illness and assessing a person’s capacity to make treatment decisions;

• Safeguards for dignity, privacy, and the right to information;

• Prohibitions on discrimination, exploitation, and abuse;

• Protocols for emergency care, seclusion, restraint, and support for persons found wandering the streets.

Sir Clare urged the Government to prioritize the Bill by initiating public consultation and working toward its passage before Independence Day, November 1, 2025.

“What a gift to the nation that would be,” he declared.

Sir Clare concluded his remarks by expressing full support on behalf of Their Excellencies and extended best wishes for the success of the Ministry.