B.V.I. Monday, June 28 - Speaking with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Adams said that she was pleased to join delegates to have fruitful discussions on policy matters particularly on the topic of the Disaster Risk Management Strategy and Plan of Action for the Tourism Sector. – Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Mrs. Rosalie Adams represented Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE at the first meeting of the Council of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) held Friday, in Barbados.

“The Caribbean region as a tourism destination must ensure the viability of our main product in the event of a natural disaster. In light of the Atlantic hurricane season and with the continued challenges brought on by climate change, steps must be in place to ensure we recover from any natural catastrophe,” Mrs. Adams said.

“Discussions aided in the development of a framework whereby we will be guided to ensure sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism before, during and after a natural disaster.” the Permanent Secretary said.

The Permanent Secretary also shared that the Territory received favourable commendations from regional counterparts for work completed to ensure local disaster preparedness and readiness.
Agenda items for the one day meeting included the report of the organs of CDEMA, the 2010-2010 work programme of the coordinating unit, policy discussions and financial matters.

CDEMA is comprised of 18 participating CARICOM countries of which the Virgin Islands is an associate member and strives to make an immediate coordinated response to any disastrous event affecting its countries which request assistance.

CDEMA has a collaborative working relationship with the Department of Disaster Management, the Territory’s local disaster management agency.