Charlestown, Nevis (Oct.17, 2006) The Nevis Disaster Management office in the Premiers Ministry of the Nevis ~~Adz:Right~~Island Administration, had an official ground breaking ceremony for the new Disaster Management Office, Emergency Operating Centre at the Long Point Road site on Monday, October 16.
Director of the Nevis Disaster Management office, Mr. Lester Blackette while giving an overview of the project said "The project has an estimated cost in excess of EC$ 1.5 million with the government providing an estimated total of EC$ 600,000. The project will provide a dedicated and designed disaster Management Office and a sound and fully functional warehouse, as well as an Emergency operating Centre with the required space."
Premier Parry in his feature address paid tribute to Mr. Llewellyn Newton former Disaster Preparedness Coordinator of Nevis Disaster Management Office. "I must congratulate all the persons who help us maintain our sanity during the hurricanes that we have witnessed since 1989, Mr. Llewellyn Newton has been that person who has remained in the forefront and performed a job well done over the years".
~~Adz:Left~~The Premier of Nevis and Minister responsible for disaster management, the Hon. Joseph Parry operated a backhoe and broke ground for the commencement of the construction of the 110 by 40 feet structure.
Major Curtis Schumacher manager of the Humanitarian Assistance Program is the Military Liaison Officer at the United States Embassy in Barbados who spoke of his institutions involvement in the project , "The building is one of several projects built under the auspices of Southcom (United States Southern Command) and I am proud to say that we are happy to assist the island of Nevis."
Also taking part in the ceremony were, Mr. Floyd Robinson Chairperson, Mrs. Mariney Newton Assistant Secretary, in the Premiers Ministry, Mr. Carl Herbert of the National Emergency Management Agency and Mr. Allister Thompson of the Nevis Disaster Management Office.