Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, has stated that the Government will be providing support for Jamaica following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
In a statement on Monday afternoon, Mrs. Persad-Bissessar extended her “heartfelt solidarity to the Government and people of Jamaica as they brace for Hurricane Melissa” and assured that Trinidad and Tobago is already mobilising to lend assistance.
“We are prepared to offer manpower, technical resources, emergency supplies, and foodstuffs to aid relief and recovery efforts. This has been communicated to the Honourable Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF), the Ministry of National Security, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs will work cohesively to deliver critical support.
“Our Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs has been in active communication with the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in Jamaica to monitor the situation and provide assistance to our citizens currently in Jamaica. The Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, the Honourable Sean Sobers, comprehensively outlined these ongoing efforts at a news conference on Sunday.”
The Prime Minister called on citizens to keep the people of Jamaica in their thoughts and prayers, and announced that a national collection drive to gather relief supplies will soon be launched by the Government in partnership with key stakeholders.
“I encourage citizens, businesses, community groups, and organisations to donate essential items. Collection venues will be shared consequently. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can bring hope and comfort to Jamaica in this time of great need. In moments like these, our strength lies in our solidarity and shared humanity. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, in partnership with key stakeholders, will launch a national collection drive to gather relief supplies. These supplies will be sent to Jamaica to assist those most in need, particularly in vulnerable communities expected to face the brunt of the hurricane’s impact.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said Trinidad and Tobago has always answered the call to help the region in times of crisis, and will do so again.
“Together, we will stand with Jamaica and help them rebuild stronger and safer in the days ahead.”