BRADES, Montserrat (March 22 2011) – Former police Inspector Billy Darroux has been appointed Director of the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) effective March 15, 2011.
According to a notice from the Acting Chief HR Officer Jean Blackstock, “Mr. Darroux has twenty three (23) years experience with the Royal Montserrat Police Force, in which he has contributed to the protection and safety of Montserrat.
As a result of his extensive experience he has developed a combination of skills and competencies which will be of value as he embarks on his new role.”
The new director says he welcomes the opportunity to continue to work to secure Montserrat for all its citizens. Darroux added that along with his team, he plans to focus on improving the DMCA’s communication with residents as well as strengthen partnerships with local and regional stakeholders, to ensure that the island benefits from the resources available for comprehensive disaster management.
“We need to be thinking about disasters other than hurricanes or the volcano and ensure our people are ready for these types of eventualities,” the director said. “I am very keen on developing a community level approach to preparation and recovery. The DMCA can also take a more active role in regional initiatives around risk reduction, as Montserrat has much experience to offer in this regard.”
The DMCA is responsible for preparedness, response and recovery after emergencies and disasters on Montserrat. Formerly called the Emergency Department, it was created in 1997 to coordinate the activities of the Emergency Response Sector. This decision was made mainly because of the impact from Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and the persistently active Soufriere Hills Volcano which came to life in 1995.
Montserrat News