Minister of Education and Human Resource Development Ronald Jones getting tested by Nurse Charmaine Ray. (Picture by Basil Griffith.)

MINISTER OF EDUCATION and Human Resource Development Ronald Jones put his money where his mouth is yesterday.

After challenging his parliamentary colleagues publicly back on June 3, during a session of the House of Assembly, to lead by example in the fight against HIV/AIDS and get tested, he stepped forward at the Broad Street, The City branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia and was tested for HIV.

Jones, like several other Barbadians, including Opposition Leader Mia Mottley, took part in the regional testing drive conducted by the Ministry of Health, and the Caribbean Broadcast Media Partnership on HIV/AIDS.

He told them then "don't be scared, don't be fearful".

"I have no fear," the parliamentary representative for Christ Church East Central said after the test. "I made a commitment in the House of Assembly and I like to stick by my words.

"I believe that HIV is such a devastating disease that if you know your status you're better able to act more responsibly and that's what we want.

"In order for us to really beat this thing to the ground we have to really know our status. We don't have to wait until we take out a $100 000 insurance policy or some lady is getting her baby or is pregnant for that to be done," Jones said.

Yesterday was also International HIV Testing Day. (DS)