Guyana gives financial support to storm ravaged Caribbean islands

Guyana gives financial support to storm ravaged Caribbean islands

Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Luncheon announced that Cabinet has approved financial support of US$100,000 each for St Lucia and St Vincent and US$75, 000 to Dominica, in wake of the deadly storm that recently affected the Eastern Caribbean, impacting more seriously on the three countries.

Several were left dead and others missing in St Lucia, St Vincent and Dominica following heavy rainfall that affected parts of the Eastern Caribbean  from December 23 through 25. All three countries also experienced massive infrastructural loss.

Immediately following the storm, President Donald Ramotar publicly expressed Government’s intention to provide assistance to the affected countries, as he joined the Caricom Head of States in commiserating with the Governments and people of the affected states.

Dr. Luncheon said too, that Government, in conjunction with the Public Service Commission (PSC) has also put in place mechanisms for a disaster relief fund, whereby Guyanese and institutions desirous of making a contribution in support of the Governments and people of the Eastern Caribbean states can do so.

The heavy rainfall and high winds, caused by a low level trough system experienced over the two-days in the Eastern Caribbean led to flooding and land slippage in the affected countries, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure such as roads, health centres and airports, and homes and regrettably, loss of life. Water, power and telephone services were also interrupted. Eight persons have been confirmed dead in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, while another five remain missing.

In Dominica, the main impact was to the southern part of the island from Scotshead to Laudat and Canefield. Flash flooding and land slippage blocked roads, homes and interrupted electrical power supply.

In Saint Lucia, six deaths have been reported, and roads and bridges severely damaged.

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