Ombudsman Arlene Brock has launched a major investigation into allegations of discrimination involving medics at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

The news comes after reports in the Mid Ocean News that two black physicians claim to have experienced acts of racism while working at KEMH.

A statement from the office of the Ombudsman said she had not come to any conclusion as to whether there was a problem with racism at the hospital.

"The purpose of this systematic investigation is to gather all the information as thoroughly as possible," she said, explaining this would be analysed and any necessary recommendations made.

"If there is discrimination, then it should be dealt with. If that discrimination impacts on patient care, then it is crucial for everyone living in Bermuda that we tackle it as quickly as we can."

Ms Brock, whose job is independent from the Government, has assembled a team of experts from the UK, US, Canada and Barbados to help with the investigation.

She said she had received promises of co-operation from key people, and invited anyone with information relevant to her investigation to come forward, emphasising that this would be treated in the strictest of confidence.

Submissions must be made by October 15, to ensure the quick completion of the investigation. Ms Brock plans to present her report to the Speaker of the House of Parliament by March 31, 2007.

The office of the Ombudsman can be reached at 14 Dundonald Street, Suite 102, Hamilton HMO9, by telephone on 296-6541 or by email at infoombudsman.bm.