Region considering procuring ship for disaster relief

Prime Minister Andrew Holness is in discussions with Trinidad & Tobago regarding the commissioning of a vessel to assist Caribbean countries during times of disaster. 

He was responding in Parliament on Tuesday to a similar suggestion by Opposition member Ronald Thwaites.

Mr. Thwaites observed that category 5 hurricanes could become the norm in the region. As a result, he said it might become more difficult to airlift emergency supplies to affected countries.

He said a ship, commissioned specifically to transport supplies, could be stationed at the Caribbean Maritime University to assist in training students in search and rescue operations.      

Mr. Holness said the idea is one which he and his Trinidadian counterpart have been considering.

Willingness

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Holness affirmed Jamaica's willingness to provide whatever assistance it can to Caribbean nations affected by major hurricanes this year.

“I am in touch with the prime ministers from the eastern Caribbean. Our prayers are with them as they seek to recover from these tragedies. Jamaica stands with them in their time of need,” he said at a Jamaica House briefing.

“Jamaica stands ready to assist our Caribbean neighbours. We are calling on the private sector to also assist where possible,” said Mr Holness.

Mr. Holness is urging Jamaicans to continue to be prepared as the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane season remains active.

The hurricane season officially ends on November 30.