the facility looked to future challenges.

Health Minister Nelson Bascome and his opposite number Kim Young led the accolades to Mrs. Manderson, who is leaving King Edward VII Memorial Hospital after five years.

All reflected on the changes made so far, including new facilities and a new management structure, and looked forward to the challenges in the future with the new executive director of the Bermuda Hospitals Board.

Mrs. Manderson said the dispute which flared up on Monday, between ancillary staff and management, had now been sorted out and the situation was back to normal.

She said she believed she was leaving the hospital in good shape and revealed yesterday both sites had received accreditation from Canadian Council of Health Services -- the first location outside of Canada to do so.

"I am satisfied with the progress that has been made,'' she said. "The re-structuring has been an ongoing process of change. But the hospital is pretty well set up.'' Mr. Bascome said there were many challenges in the next few years, not least rising health care costs.

He commended Mrs. Manderson, who is leaving after five years, for her management initiatives, which had helped improve health care on the Island.

"I would like to congratulate her on behalf of the Government, and thank her for her years of service.'' Mrs. Manderson was honoured by staff at a party held in one of the hospital car parks.

Shadow Health Minister Kim Young said she was a shining example of a Bermudian who had studied abroad and brought her skills back home, becoming an example to young locals.

"It was a very big challenge,'' she said. "She has done a fabulous job with the re-structuring. It has been really difficult but she has come through it very well.'' Sheila Manderson