Private and public groups pledge to help Vincentians

Several local public and private organisations have pledged their support to help their "Caricom brothers and sisters" in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) affected by the eruption of La Soufriere volcano.

"We are putting things in place to ship items for them, all protocols observed. Being responsible Caribbean neighbours, we must help in this natural disaster," said Kiran Singh, president of the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce (GSFCC).

"This chamber does not have businesses there. But we certainly share with their plight. Some of us would have some sort of relations there — family, friends, colleagues, and so on."

After the eruptions on Friday, volcanic ash not only affected SVG, forcing thousands to evacuate but is spewing towards neighbouring islands.

As of Saturday, the Barbados Meteorological Services issued a severe volcanic ash warning in that island. Owing to the volcanic ash, the Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados was closed until 6 am on Sunday.

Singh added GSFCC is mindful of constraints in SVG. He said, "Because of the ash dispensation in the atmosphere, we have to ensure that the first-responders’ lives are not endangered by us assisting."

Richie Sookhai, president of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC), told Sunday Newsday that a meeting is scheduled for Monday with board members and discuss plans for a collection drive.

"We will consult on Monday, then send a release to our members. The intentions are there, and it will come to fruition," Sookhai said.

"This chamber is monitoring the situation closely and whatever effort we can do in Trinidad, we definitely will do to part to help."

Several local state agencies continue to drive relief efforts to support the people of SVG.

Through the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), the Government is hosting a relief collection drive as part of its ongoing response and relief efforts.

A release from the ODPM on Saturday said through this initiative, the national community can once again demonstrate its true Caribbean solidarity by providing much-needed relief items to the citizens affected during this critical time.

The ODPM advised that people/organisations interested in donating to the relief collection drive follow the Immediate Needs List provided by the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) of SVG.

"While we are aware that many persons would want to give many items in the spirit of humanitarianism, it is important that we do not send unsolicited supplies that may overwhelm the country’s logistics system," the release said.

The ODPM, with support from the Disaster Management Units (DMU) of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government, Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) International, has established several relief collection centres across TT.

"Every little contribution will help as we stand in support of our sister Caribbean nation in her time of need," it said.

"The Ministry of National Security extends its heartfelt thanks to you for giving kind consideration to our request and urges you to adhere to the national covid19 guidelines and protocols provided by the Ministry of Health."

On Friday, a statement from the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation said it is part of the humanitarian efforts supporting "our Caricom brothers and sisters."

A release on Saturday from Rural Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein advised the public that the DMU’s of all 14 municipal corporations have been activated to collect SVG relief supplies.

The release quoted Hosein as saying, "The Ministry of National Security is leading the charge, and we at local government through our DMUs will continue to lend support in the collection of relief items and any way possible."

He commended his colleague, National Security Minister, Stuart Young and his team at the ODPM for assisting SVG.

"We are our brother’s keeper and pledge our continued support to helping those citizens during this perilous situation."

He encouraged the public to demonstrate Caribbean solidarity and assist in any way they can.

The release said, "The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government remains committed to providing an effective response in emergencies and, as always, putting people first."

Immediate Needs List

Water tanks (800 and 1,000 gallons)

Buckets (5 gallons)

Folding cots

Portable potties (toilets)

Blankets

Field tents (20ft x 20ft)

Field kitchen

Sleeping mats

Respirator masks with filters

Goggles

Reflective vests

Caution tape (100ft roll)

Hygiene kits