The Government yesterday reaffirmed that urgent care centres will be built at both ends of the Island costing $5 million.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at one of the sites, a field in Southside, St. David's, and follows on from the plans being outlined in the Throne Speech.

The field on the right side of the hill on the way to White's Supermarket will be the location of the East End centre, it was announced yesterday. Premier Dr. Ewart Brown and Health Minister Michael Scott attended the press conference.

Dr. Brown spoke about taking Bermuda to the next level and the care centre being an example of that plan.

"It is inconvenient for someone with chest pains in St. David's or a cut thumb in Southside to go all the way to Paget to receive appropriate medical care. Today's project launches the special moment."

Mr. Scott said: "This is indeed an excellent day for health care. We've got a pair of health facilities being brought to our country."

He explained residents at both ends of the Island have been complaining about having to go to the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for medical attention and have asked for additional health facilities. He also said these urgent care centres will reduce the impact on the emergency room at the hospital.

Mr. Scott thanked Minister of Works and Engineering, Dennis Lister, for providing the land for the centre to be built. He also thanked the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB), the fire officers and Dr. Brown for "envisioning the urgent care centres".

David Hill, CEO of BHB, explained they chose a "fresh site" instead of renovation because it is much more desirable. He also said with the fire station being so close by, it was the best site.

The other urgent care centre will be built in Port Royal, Southampton next to the fire station. Both facilities will be opened the end of 2008 or early 2009.