United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for the St. Philip’s North by-election, Alex Browne, says years of advocacy helped bring about the opening of a pharmacy at the Glanvilles Polyclinic, a development he says will improve access to medication for residents in several eastern communities.

Speaking during an interview at the facility with UPP candidate for St. Peter, George Wehner, Browne described the opening of the satellite pharmacy as the result of sustained pressure on the government to make use of the space that had long been available within the complex.

“It has been a long road — going on almost four years,” Browne said, noting that he had repeatedly raised the issue publicly and urged authorities to establish pharmacy services at the location.

Browne said the addition of the pharmacy is expected to benefit residents not only in St. Philip’s North but also in neighbouring constituencies including St. Peter, St. Philip’s South and St. Paul.

“Opening the pharmacy here is good for the community,” he said, adding that residents previously had to travel long distances to access medication.

While welcoming the development, Browne said he hopes the facility will be properly staffed and supplied to meet the needs of the community.

The St. Philip’s North by-election is scheduled for March 16.