THE medical team of six and the boat handler who went missing in Lakeba waters last month visited Parliament yesterday as part of their therapy.
Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said the team was still undergoing psychiatric evaluation, counselling and trauma-related therapy following their experience.
Dr Lalabalavu said the team’s mental recovery included going out in public and walking around normally and that the team had improved but still had some way to go in terms of their full recovery and mental health.
“Their visit now is part of the treatment as well,” he said.
“I was surprised that they came. I didn’t ask them to come. It was part of their therapy to come out in public. So, I’m glad that they chose Parliament as one of the sites to visit.”
He said the team was warmly welcomed by the Speaker, Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff.
Parliament Speaker Filimoni Jitoko welcomed the team and acknowledged their work in providing medical services to maritime communities.
“These dedicated health workers were travelling to provide much needed medical services to maritime communities,” Mr Jitoko said.
“My people from Lakeba know very well the waters you’re talking about.
“It is a pretty rough piece of water.”
