-help being mobilised
The Chairman of CARICOM, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali yesterday expressed :deep concern and continued anxiety over the passage of Hurricane Beryl through our region”.
In a statement he said that initial reports have indicated significant damage and destruction to infrastructure and private property in some territories.
“As this weather phenomenon roars its way through the Region, we must continue to brace ourselves against the effects of high winds, storm surges along sea coasts, and heavy rainfall.
“In light of these challenging times, I urge all citizens and the private sector of our region to coordinate closely with their respective governments and regional emergency response mechanisms in providing immediate support and relief to those affected by the hurricane”, he said.
He added that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is already working to mobilise and coordinate assistance and disaster relief even as the storm is still passing through the Windward Islands.
“This is a time for all of us as a regional community to stand together and extend our support to those impacted or likely to be impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Let us mobilise the necessary assistance and relief efforts in the true spirit of regional solidarity.
“Together, we can overcome the adversities posed by this hurricane and ensure the safety and well-being of all our peoples and communities”, he stated.
In a separate statement on the Office of the President page, he said: “I am closely coordinating with all affected countries in our region. We have activated a full emergency response team from Guyana to support all efforts. Currently, we are mobilising for our first support mission, prioritising Grenada for (this) morning”.
The CARICOM Heads of Government summit which was to have been held in Grenada beginning from yesterday was postponed because of the hurricane.
