By Caribbean News Global contributor
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent — The government of Grenada announced Wednesday that it will provide $1 million in support for the government and people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, to help deal with the impact of the explosive eruptions at the La Soufriere volcano; while the government of Antigua and Barbuda began its response efforts on Thursday, April 8, 2021, agreed to accept 250 Vincentian evacuees who would be accommodated at the Jolly Beach Hotel.
Prime minister of Grenada Keith Mitchell, said: “This is a time of serious crisis and our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters in St Vincent and the Grenadines. We have not lost sight of the fact that we are in the middle of a global pandemic that has affected all economies but when a crisis of this nature occurs and your brothers and sisters are in trouble, we simply have to extend a helping hand.
“It is the right thing to do. In situations like this, I recall September 2004 when Hurricane Ivan devastated our country and these very neighbours, were among the first to help us. Being our brother’s keeper is just part of our tradition as Caribbean people.”
Grenada’s cash donation is in addition to emergency humanitarian relief coordinated by the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA).
The first shipment of supplies left Grenada last Sunday primarily water also included non-perishable food, hygiene products, baby products and adult care items.
OECS – international aid packages roll out for St Vincent and the Grenadines
On Monday, April 12, 2021, donations from corporate and civic organizations as well as the national warehouse in Antigua and Barbuda which was coordinated through the National Office of Disaster Services, including [ water, water tanks, housing supplies, personal care items, mosquito nets, generators, lanterns, flashlights, and relief kits] were shipped in a 20-foot container to St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Browne said: “I want to reaffirm the commitment of Antigua and Barbuda to assist our brothers and sisters in Saint Vincent. We are already mobilizing here. We recognize that we are in this together. We are part of a common union and we have to stand in solidarity with each other during times of crisis.”
The government of Antigua and Barbuda extended support and services to the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, continues.
- The ministry of health will provide medical support; the transport board will provide the necessary transportation for official movement;
- The ministry of education will facilitate the education of students; the security forces will provide security as necessary for the well-being of all; and,
- The ministry of works will assist with physical security if necessary.
OECS Commission launches “Stronger Together Campaign” to support St Vincent and the Grenadines
