BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has pledged its support to hurricane-ravaged Haiti and The Bahamas in the amount of more than $1M to assist with relief efforts in those islands.
Finance Minister and Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris made the announcement last evening (Nov. 19) in an address to the nation.
During the first week of October 2016, Hurricane Matthew – which was a Category Four storm – battered both territories leaving widespread destruction and death in its wake.
In late October, during his monthly press conference, Prime Minister Harris explained that his Government had not yet contributed to the relief effort as it was awaiting “clear and explicit communication from the Government prioritizing their need. As we did in relation to Dominica, we will respond”.
And in last evening’s address, Dr. Harris stated that Cabinet had the benefit of seeing a report by the CARICOM Chairman in which damage to those two territories was addressed.
“The Cabinet also took note of a report from the CARICOM Chairman under damage caused to Haiti and The Bahamas by Hurricane Matthew. In this regard Cabinet noted its regret at the devastation occasioned on Haiti and the significant damage to The Bahamas. Cabinet pledges its support to these islands totalling just over EC$1M. This amount will be shared between the two countries on an equitable basis, taking into account the damage and economic health of each member state.”
Dr. Harris said the Federation is pleased to be able to provide assistance to those in need of it.
“We have been fortunate so far to be spared the ravages of a hurricane for the 2016 season. We are prepared as a people not only to sympathize with those who suffer but also to extend a helping hand. We are happy to be in this position to experience the satisfaction of giving to others. For all of God’s mercies and our accomplishments and successes to date, we are minded to say to God be the glory, great things He has done.”
Sometime last month, the Chamber of Industry and Commerce reached out to its members and others seeking to gather enough essentials to ship to the people of Haiti. The organization was able to fill two 40-foot containers and shipped them to Haiti.
