Moses urges ACS: More attention needed on natural disasters

Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Dennis Moses has appealed to the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) to do what it can to confront natural disasters in the region.

Moses made this appeal when he addressed the opening of the 20th Inter-sessional Preparatory Meeting for the 23rd Ordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the ACS, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in, Port of Spain, yesterday.

Moses told ACS delegates the effects of natural disasters on the region was demonstrated by the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma, Maria and Nate this year. He said these disastrous effects, “Have left most of us shocked and saddened, as we attempt to come to terms with the devastation that has been wrought upon the Greater Caribbean, including the significant number of lives lost.”

Moses reiterated Government’s sympathy and solidarity to the government and people of Mexico, in the wake of catastrophic earthquakes which struck that nation in September.

The minister said Small Island Developing States and other small states in the Greater Caribbean region, “Have a high degree of vulnerability and are affected disproportionately by natural disasters.” Against this background, Moses said the work of the ACS’ Special Committee on Natural Disasters “provides a platform for regional co-operation as we seek to grapple with common threats.”

The minister said it was of paramount importance for ACS member states to be “ever mindful of the need for co-ordination of our efforts.” Moses said it was imperative that ACS member states recognised the shared responsibility they had and their collective responsibility towards integration of the Greater Caribbean region.