Guyana to provide financial support to storm-affected Eastern Caribbean countries

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (GINA) — Guyana’s Cabinet has approved financial support of US$100,000 each for Saint Lucia and St Vincent and US$75, 000 to Dominica, in the wake of the deadly storm that recently affected the Eastern Caribbean, impacting more seriously on the three countries.

Donald Ramotar, President of Guyana
Donald Ramotar, President of Guyana

Several were left dead and others missing in Saint 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 the government’s intention to provide assistance to the affected countries, as he joined the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) head of states in commiserating with the governments and people of the affected islands.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon said 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 may 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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