Crichlow-Cockburn: Over 5,000 flood cheques distributed

MORE than 5,000 cheques have been distributed to flooding victims, reported Minister of Social Development and Family Services Cherrie-Ann Crichlow-Cockburn.

She was responding to a question in Parliament on Friday.

She said 6,501 assessments had been done as at November 15, 2018, the deadline for submissions of requests for assessments and completed forms. She recalled just before the deadline 639 assessments had been received and this figure was reduced after a check of the database for duplication. She reported as at November 30 there were 348 outstanding site visits and assessments to be made.

Crichlow-Cockburn said as at November 30, 5,523 cheques had been distributed to flood victims in all affected areas.

Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Christine Newallo-Hosein asked when assessments would be completed and Crichlow-Cockburn said the deadline was January 31.

Caroni East MP Dr Tim Gopeesingh asked after the assessments are completed when the victims would receive financial help.

She responded: "The ministry will attempt to complete them in the shortest possible time frame."

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh also reported that afterthe flooding from October 19-21 a total of 14,895 houses were sprayed and defogged by the Insect Vector Control Division in 30 areas.