Minister for disabilities Jeremiah Norbert has addressed the press, revisiting the ordeal of his devastating motorcycle accident that left him with life-altering injuries—an experience he hopes never to relive. Struggling to maintain his composure during the Cabinet brief Monday, Norbert expressed frustration that the traumatic event had resurfaced in public discourse, this time due to claims by former Prime Minister Allen Chastanet that his administration facilitated Norbert’s medical travel when the country was in lockdown. Chastanet alleged that, under the strict COVID-19 restrictions at the time, it would have been impossible for Norbert to make the necessary arrangements without government intervention.
Norbert has categorically denied receiving any special privileges, stating that his treatment was funded through a combination of personal finances and insurance. To support his claim, he produced medical receipts and disclosed that he continues to make payments on his hospital bill at La Maynard. Accusing Chastanet of playing “cheap politics,” Norbert insisted that the former Prime Minister was distorting the facts to score political points.
Chastanet has maintained that his reference to Norbert’s accident was only a minor point in his broader argument, which focused on what he perceives as Norbert’s lack of urgency in addressing a similar case within his own constituency. He cited the case of James Peter, a Micoud North resident who lost both legs in a catastrophic accident on the Millennium Highway. Peter later succumbed at home following his discharge from the hospital, and Chastanet believes Norbert, as Minister for Disabilities and MP for the area, should have been more proactive in assisting him.
As the debate intensifies, the political tug-of-war has fueled broader discussions about leadership, empathy, and the intersection of personal tragedy with public service. With both figures standing their ground, Saint Lucians will be watching closely to see how this dispute unfolds.
Stay connected with www.saintluciadailypost.com for the latest updates on this developing story.
