The St Vincent Public Service Union (PSU) has intensified its criticism of Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache, demanding her resignation as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) over the controversial COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
PSU President Elroy Boucher on Monday allege that the CMO was one of the architects of policies that caused significant hardship for public servants and low-wage workers during the pandemic.
“Through that vaccine mandate, countless families were hurt,” Boucher declared. “People suffered financially and psychologically, losing assets and experiencing immense distress.”
The union leader specifically highlighted the impact on vulnerable workers, including Town Board employees and school janitors who lost their jobs due to the vaccine requirements. Boucher argued that the mandate showed a “total disregard for people’s rights, including their right to bodily integrity.”
Boucher emphasized the union’s complete loss of confidence in Keizer-Beache, claiming that she demonstrated indifference to the suffering of workers. He also criticized the previous government’s approach, noting that former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves consistently cited the CMO’s advice when implementing pandemic policies.
“She couldn’t care whether they survive or not,” Boucher stated, calling for her immediate retirement “in the interest of the public.”
As of now, neither Dr. Keizer-Beache nor the Public Service Commission has publicly responded to the union’s call for her retirement.