Imbert: Government Must Investigate Disposal of $80M in Expired Drugs
Former Finance Minister Colm Imbert is calling on the Government to thoroughly review the circumstances surrounding the disposal of approximately $80 million worth of expired pharmaceuticals.
In June, it was disclosed that the National Insurance Property Development Company (NIPDEC) had discarded these items between 2020 and 2025. The revelation came after Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe requested a detailed report from NIPDEC outlining the value of both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical items disposed of over that period.
On Tuesday, Independent Senator Dr Marlene Attzs, a member of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee, stated that there was no need to question former Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh regarding the issue.
Speaking at a PNM media conference yesterday, Imbert pointed to problems rooted in supplier contracts.
“This is a major issue. International suppliers sometimes pressure local agents into purchasing large quantities of drugs, even when smaller amounts are needed. It’s not financially sensible, and it creates risky situations,” he explained.
He added that any concerns about a pharmaceutical monopoly should be taken up with the Fair Trading Commission or addressed directly by the Health Minister.
