By Krystal Knowles, The Bahamas Information Services.

Governor General Dame Ivy Dumont visited the Department of Public Health's Community Clinic in Gambier Village on Monday, touring and visiting with patients and staff, before addressing residents of the community at a ceremony on Gambier Park.

Also attending the ceremony was Minister of Health Sen. Dr. Marcus Bethel and Neville Wisdom, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture and MP for Delaporte Constituency, in which Gambier Village is located.

The Governor-General noted that The Bahamas has a wonderful medical and educational heritage.

"Bahamian doctors are among the best-trained doctors within the region, receiving education at the University of the West Indies," said Dame Ivy.

Dame Ivy said The College of The Bahamas, in conjunction with the University of the West Indies, gives nurses an opportunity to gain a wide variety of work experiences at the many clinics throughout The Bahamas.

The Governor-General also encouraged nurses to undertake work assignments in the Family Islands because it is a "rewarding experience."

Minister Bethel commended the Department of Public Health for preventing the outbreak of SARS disease in The Bahamas.

"No one covers The Bahamas like the Department of Public Health," Minister Bethel said.

He also lauded the department's staff for doing "an excellent job" in assisting various health clinics throughout the Family Islands during Hurricane Jeanne and Frances.

Minister Bethel noted the recent opening of four new clinics in the Family Islands, including Andros, Abaco and Exuma, which are "fully staffed and functioning well."

Minister Wisdom congratulated the Ministry of Health for adequately servicing Gambier community.

He also applauded the Ministry of Education on the new nursery and preschool in Gambier Village, which is of great importance to the parents.

Gambier Village is one of 10 communities within the Caribbean participating in UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) programmes and its community clinic is one of 115 operated by the Department of Public Health throughout The Bahamas.

Gambier Community Clinic was established in 1976 by Sir Clement Maynard, former Deputy Prime Minister, and expanded its services in 1979.

To date, the Gambier Clinic provide services to a wide variety of communities, including Gambier Village, Lyford Cay, Clifton Pier and Tropical Gardens.