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At the formal Legislative Council meeting held on Monday, 29 September 2025, the following Members were elected to serve on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC):
- Hon Dr Corinda Essex
- Hon Clint Beard
- Hon Derek Thomas
Also at the meeting Members elected the Chairpersons of the Select Committees:
- Hon Robert Midwinter as Chairperson of Select Commitee 1
- Hon Dr Corinda Essex as Chairperson of Select Commitee 2
Three Sessional Papers were also laid on the table, namely: Immigration (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 Rectification Order 2025; Panel of Investigators 2025; Legislative Council Remuneration Review Report, August 2025. These papers are available on the St Helena Government website.
#StHelena #LegCo #PAC
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The Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) wishes to inform the public of potential supply challenges at the pharmacy. We are currently experiencing delays in receiving a shipment of medical supplies, which may lead to some medications being temporarily out of stock.
This issue is due to a combination of factors including regulatory requirements in South Africa, our main transit point for goods, and subsequent freight delays. We understand how concerning this news may be, and we want to reassure the community that the HSC is actively working to resolve the situation.
Our team is exploring all available options to secure the necessary supplies and minimise the impact on patient care. We are in constant communication with our partners to expedite the shipment and identify alternative solutions.
The public’s patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated. We kindly request that you please be mindful that some items may be in limited supply and we ask that you only request what is necessary at this time.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers are obliged to include an expiry date on all medicines, and for legal reasons international regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organisation have to advise compliance with these dates. However there is little evidence that in most cases drugs are not safe and effective for a long time after the date stated. There have been a number of scientific studies which show that drugs remain usable for many years after the stated date. Given the current supply problems the pharmacy may occasionally dispense drugs which are beyond the stated expiry date. This will only be done in cases where the medicine is essential, there is no in date stock available, and the literature has been consulted to ensure that the drug is safe to use.
For information on this, see the links below.
We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
For any urgent health concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the hospital or your doctor.
The following links provide further insight into the use of expired medication:
- Arioua A, et al. (2023).
Use of Expired Drugs: Patients Benefits versus Industry …
Finds that some medications, if stored properly, remain safe after expiration; sometimes for many years. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10834166/ - Gikonyo D, et al. (2019).
Drug expiry debate: the myth and the reality (PMC)
90% of more than 100 drugs (prescription & OTC) were “perfectly good” even 15 years past expiry. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7040264/ - Harvard Health (Harvard Medical School).
Is it ok to use medications past their expiration dates?
Reports that many meds were still effective nearly three years past expiration in a military‐stockpile study. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/is-it-ok-to-use-medications-past-their-expiration-dates - Beery S. (2019).
Can medications become harmful after the expiration date? (Nursing journal)
Discusses which drugs are most risky and why many are low risk. https://journals.lww.com/nursing/fulltext/2019/08000/can_medications_become_harmful_after_the.4.aspx - “The Truth About Expired Drugs: An In‐Depth Review” (Agrawal et al., 2023).
Review article showing that many drugs keep ~90% potency for at least 5 years beyond expiry under good storage. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376352587_THE_TRUTH_ABOUT_EXPIRED_DRUGS_AN_IN-DEPTH_REVIEW - Pharmacist.com Blog (“Are expired drugs still safe to use?”).
Summarizes evidence (e.g. from the DoD’s Shelf Life Extension Program) that many drugs retain potency long after printed expiration dates. https://www.pharmacist.com/Blogs/CEO-Blog/are-expired-drugs-still-safe-to-use?utm - Japan Medical Association Journal / JMAJ (2022‐2024).
Use of Expired Drugs: Patients Benefits versus Industry …
Similar findings regarding safety of certain expired drugs with proper storage. https://www.jmaj.jp/download.php?id=10.31662%2Fjmaj.2022-0209&utm - U.S. Department of Defense / FDA Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP).
Data show many stockpiled pharmaceuticals remain effective for years after expiration when stored under controlled conditions. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelf_Life_Extension_Program - De la Nogal‐Fernández B, et al. Are We Throwing Away Medicines Too Early? (ACS)
Examines environmental, economic, and clinical arguments for re‐evaluating expiration dates, especially when no alternatives exist. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.5c03842 - Diven, Dayna G. et al. Extending Shelf Life Just Makes Sense Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Volume 90, Issue 11, 1471 – 1474 https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/action/showCitFormats?doi=10.1016%2Fj.mayocp.2015.08.007&pii=S0025-6196%2815%2900667-9
In recognition of World Maritime Day, marked on 25 September this year, the St Helena Government (SHG) is highlighting the island’s long and vital connection to the sea. The 2025 theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, is particularly relevant to St Helena as it embraces a new chapter in its maritime history.
This month marks a significant milestone for the island’s maritime operations, as St Helena is set to utilise the new cargo management facility at Rupert’s. This is the first time in several hundred years that the cargo operations will not be carried out at the Jamestown wharf, Jamestown. This strategic shift is part of an ongoing effort to modernise the island’s infrastructure and enhance its logistical capabilities, ensuring the safety and efficiency of all future maritime activities.
The transition to Rupert’s is a complex undertaking, involving extensive planning and collaboration among various SHG departments and international partners. The new facility, with its improved amenities and increased capacity, is expected to support the island’s economic development and provide greater flexibility for cargo and passenger vessels.
St Helena’s history is inextricably linked to the sea, and its maritime legacy continues to shape the island’s future. SHG is committed to upholding international maritime standards and ensuring the safety of all who travel to and from its shores. The St Helena Maritime Authority extends its appreciation to all seafarers, port workers, and maritime professionals for their contributions to St Helena’s prosperity and security.
About World Maritime Day
World Maritime Day is an annual event organised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to celebrate the maritime industry and its vital role in global trade and transport.
#StHelena #WorldMaritimeDay
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In the lead up to the implementation of the Immigration (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, the St Helena Government (SHG) has identified that the Ordinance creates an unacceptable level of uncertainty. For example, a lack of clarity relating to Permission to Stay and Work Permits has caused concern that essential medical personnel entering for a short period would not be able to work on island as anticipated.
Accordingly, SHG has decided to revoke the Commencement Order date that was set at 01 October 2025.
This decision, approved during a special meeting of Executive Council on 23 September 2025, means that the existing Immigration Ordinance 2011 remains in full effect.
The delay in enactment will enable necessary refinements to be made to ensure that the legislation is fully aligned with the policy intent and adequately protects the community’s needs, thus providing the very best service to the public.
The amended legislation will be prioritised and come back to Legislative Council. We will provide further updates on the revised ordinance as this process moves forward.
#StHelena #ImmigrationOrdinance #Changes
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Nominations are now being invited for the following awards.
UK STATE AWARDS – 2026 BIRTHDAY HONOURS
Honours are awarded on merit for exceptional achievement or for any service carried out over and above what normally is expected. This can include making a difference to the community or in a specific field of work, innovation and entrepreneurship, improving life for people less able to help themselves and displaying moral courage. Where possible, nominations should place emphasis on voluntary services and the service must be recent. Nominees must not be made aware they are being put forward for an award.
To find out more about the different types of Honours Awards please visit: www.gov.uk/honours
CERTIFICATE AND BADGE OF HONOUR
This award is presented to public servants on behalf of St Helena Government for loyal and valuable service worthy of recognition or, in the case of other persons, for their loyal and meritorious conduct that has provided exceptional benefit to the people of St Helena. Nominees should be residents of St Helena, either being born on the Island or have been residing on St Helena for not less than ten years prior to the date of the award.
ACT OF BRAVERY AWARD
This award is presented to individuals who have shown a clear display of moral courage and bravery in adverse situations.
THE BADGE OF ST HELENA
This award is available to both St Helenians and non-St Helenians. It is of a higher status than the Certificate and Badge of Honour. The Badge of St Helena recognises exceptional service provided by individuals or organisations who make significant contribution to St Helena’s development or by supporting and/or enhancing social, cultural, economic, environmental improvement or the understanding of St Helena internationally.
FREEDOM OF THE CITY OF JAMESTOWN
This award is symbolic in nature and is the highest-level of local government award that can be conferred. It is awarded to both St Helenians and non-St Helenians whose achievements are significantly admirable and highly worthy of distinctive recognition. Those who receive this award will have made an outstanding contribution that is of huge national impact to St Helena and its citizens and will have served the best interests of the Island.
Nomination forms for all of the above awards, are available from Central Support Service at the Castle, Jamestown, or can be requested via email: linda.benjamin@sainthelena.gov.sh.
Completed forms should be returned to the Castle in a sealed envelope marked ‘Confidential’ addressed to ‘The Secretary, Honours and Awards Committee’, by Friday, 31 October 2025.
SHG
24 September 2025
Following the recent announcement of the Ministerial Team, the remaining seven Councillors have now confirmed district representation across the Island. This important step will help strengthen engagement between Councillors and the communities we serve.
We are pleased to announce the following district representatives:
| Councillor | District Represented | Contact Details |
| Cllr. Ronald Coleman | Levelwood | ronald.coleman@parliament.sh Tel No: + 290 24250 |
| Cllr. Derek Thomas | Half-Tree-Hollow | derek.thomas@parliament.sh Tel No: + 290 23647 (H) Mobile No: + 290 66907 (M) |
| Cllr. Robert Midwinter | St. Pauls | robert.midwinter@parliament.sh Mobile No: + 290 51500 |
| Cllr. Dr Corinda Essex | Jamestown | corinda.essex@parliament.sh Tel No: + 290 22038 |
| Cllr. Dennis Leo | Longwood | dennis.leo@parliament.sh Mobile No: + 290 67109 |
| Cllr. Julie Thomas | Alarm Forest | julie.thomas@parliament.sh Mobile No: + 290 61920 |
| Cllr. Clint Beard | Blue Hill & Sandy Bay | clint.beard@parliament.sh Tel No: + 290 22351 Mobile No: + 290 64837 |
While each Councillor has been assigned to a district, members of the public are welcome to contact any Councillor of their choice. However, we encourage you to build a relationship with your nominated representative to ensure continuity and strong local connections.
In the coming weeks, Councillors will also announce the areas of interest and working groups they will be championing. This will provide further clarity on how responsibilities are shared and how your representatives will advocate for community priorities.
Your Councillors remain committed to strengthening relationships with you, our constituents, engaging openly on issues that matter, and improving communication.
As Elected Members, it is our responsibility and privilege to represent you – the people of St Helena
Legislative Council
24 September 2025
St Helena Government (SHG) are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Andrew Duncan as the new Attorney General (AG).
Mr Duncan will arrive on the island this weekend and will be officially sworn into office on Thursday 2 October 2025.
SHG wishes to express its thanks to Mr Andrew Dawson for his services as the interim Attorney General.
#StHelena #AttorneyGeneral
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Chief Minister Rebecca Cairns-Wicks today announced the Ministers she has selected and the Public Service Portfolios allocated to them. They are:
- Safety, Security and Home Affairs Portfolio – Councillor Gillian Brooks
- Education, Skills and Employment Portfolio – Councillor Andrew Turner
- Environment, Natural Resources and Planning Portfolio and Economic Development Portfolio – Councillor Karl Thrower
- Health and Social Care Portfolio – Councillor Martin Henry
The Chief Minister will have responsibility for the Treasury and for Central Support Services.
The Chief Minister has recommended to the Governor that he makes these appointments. Pursuant to the Constitution the Governor will now formally make the appointments and Portfolio allocations.
Each Minister will exercise general direction and policy control over departments assigned to them subject to the policies of Government.
Chief Minister Rebecca Cairn-Wicks commented:
“I would like to extend my gratitude and congratulations to the new Ministers in taking on their new roles. We know that there are challenges ahead, but together as a team we will be ready to face them.
The team has been chosen with deep consideration and care.
Our priorities are clear: to listen, to work openly, and to take forward the policies and decisions that will help move the island forwards and build a strong and sustainable future for St Helena.
I have every confidence that the Ministerial team will bring energy, dedication, and integrity to their roles. We will be accountable to the public, guided by the values of fairness, transparency, and service. Our commitment is to put people first and to work together for the good of the island.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank Honourable Members of Legislative Council for the generosity of your time, consideration and support as I step into the role of Chief Minister. I am heartened by discussion and debate and the commitment to working together, facilitating good communication and transparency in the decision-making process and I am committed to work with you in this way.”
The Chief Minister, four Ministers and the Attorney General form the Executive Council. The Executive Council with the Governor are the highest decision making body of the St Helena Government.
#StHelena #ChiefMinister #Ministers
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Honourable Maureen Thompson and Honourable Connie Johnson have been elected as the new Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively.
To be elected as Speaker a candidate is required to secure a total of seven votes. On the first day of voting, none of the candidates met this threshold and after five rounds of voting, there was a tie between the final two candidates. In accordance with Standing Order 5, Rule 25(b), the election for the Speaker was therefore deferred to the following day. The Speaker and Deputy Speaker are both important roles and this provision allows Elected Members additional time to reflect on their decision, promoting a more thoughtful and deliberate outcome.
In a situation such as this, Standing Order 5 Rule 25(b) also requires that a fresh election be held. In other words, unless one or more of the six candidates who put themselves forward for election as Speaker withdraws, the election should start again with the same six candidates.
Accordingly on the second day, a fresh election was held for the Speaker, and the election for the Deputy Speaker was also conducted. This re-commencement of the election process ensures complete transparency and fairness for all candidates, reinforcing the democratic principles of the council.
The Honourable Maureen Thompson, Speaker, commented:
“I am honoured to be elected as Speaker and look forward to serving the Legislative Council and the people we represent with diligence and impartiality.”
The Honourable Connie Johnson, the newly elected Deputy Speaker, added,
“I am committed to supporting the Speaker and the work of the Legislative Council.”
The Legislative Council extends its congratulations to both Honourable Thompson and Honourable Johnson and looks forward to their leadership.
#StHelena #LegislativeCouncil
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The inaugural meeting of the newly elected Legislative Council took place in the Council Chamber today. Local media, members of the public and Public Service officials attended to witness the first formal meeting under the new elected government.
The proceedings were opened with the entry of the President, His Excellency Governor Nigel Phillips CBE, followed by Prayers and the Administration of Oaths where each Member was called forward to take before the Governor the Oath of Allegiance and Due Execution of Office of Member of the Legislative Council.
Governor Phillips presided over the meeting.
In his opening Address (full copy) HE the Governor said:
“It is a great pleasure to welcome you today as you take your seats in this Chamber, having earned the trust of the people of St Helena through democratic election. Whether you are returning to Council or joining it for the first time, your presence here reflects a commitment to public service that deserves recognition and respect.
The work of this Council is central to the life of our democracy. As elected representatives, you are entrusted with three core responsibilities: to make legislation that services the long-term interests of the island; to scrutinise the work of government with fairness and rigour; and to represent the voices, concerns, and aspirations of your constituents.”
HE the Governor concluded by saying:
“I recognise that the months ahead will bring challenges. There will be difficult decisions, competing priorities, and moments of disagreement. But I also know that this Council brings together a wealth of experience, insight, and commitment. If you approach your work with humility, with a willingness to listen, and with a focus on the common good, you will serve this island well.
Let me close by thanking each of you for stepping forward to serve. The people of St Helena have placed their confidence in you. I wish you wisdom, strength, and unity as you begin this important work.”
Elections then followed for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker and Chief Minister:
At this point the Attorney General presented a motion to suspend Standing Orders concerning the election of the Speaker and to agree to the adoption of alternative procedures to allow for all candidates to be nominated and seconded en bloc. The motion was supported unanimously.
Speaker
Six nominations were received for the role of Speaker. However after five rounds of voting, votes were tied and a motion was agreed that the elections for Speaker and Deputy Speaker would be adjourned.
Chief Minister
There was one nomination for Chief Minister which resulted in the Honourable Dr Rebecca Cairns-Wicks being elected as the second Chief Minister for St Helena.
Legislative Council will resume tomorrow, 11 September, the main items of business will be the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker.
Photo
New Chief Minister, Dr Rebecca Cairns-Wicks
#StHelena #LegislativeCouncil #ChiefMinister