Each year we brace ourselves for events during the hurricane season that have the potential to be catastrophic. Thankfully, most years we are spared by the mercies of God.
A few days ago, our Islands experienced heavy rainfall during the passage of TS Cristobal. Unfortunately there are areas that suffered extensive flooding with resultant property damage and loss. This is especially true on the Islands of North Caicos and Providenciales.
Whilst shelters were used for the most vulnerable and displaced, we are eternally grateful to all who offered assistance in any form whether it was to rescue family members or fellow men. In times of trouble, it is good to know that we are still our brothers’ keepers.
Members of the PDM have attempted to make the journey over to North Caicos two days after the storm had abated but due to difficulties with scheduling and lack of adequate ground transportation, we were forced to cancel our trip. But residents of the affected islands can rest assured that we will continue to monitor the situation. Unfortunately our trip may not be completed this week due to the House of Assembly being scheduled for Thursday and possibly Friday, but it will be done as soon as possible.
However we are aware of the severity of the situation from talking to residents, seeing photos and hearing releases from Government officials. We want to thank those hard working civil servants who have been completely absorbed in disaster relief and recovery efforts following the passage of this Storm. The Departments of DDME, Public Works, Environmental Health, Service Organisations and all Policy makers are doing their best to manage the aftermath and we pledge our assistance wherever they deem that we are able to help.
PDM’s elected members of Providenciales have been touring their constituencies and the entire Island of Providenciales lending assistance and arranging for the removal of water and debris from flooded areas through private offerings of equipment. We remain committed to helping in any other ways.
Going forward, we must see the need to adhere strictly to planning requirements including the digging of wells on lower parts of properties, the refusal of grants of lands in flood prone areas, the encouragement for residents to also seek to insure their property against damage and the general need for better drainage system on major Islands.
We await the official report and the quantification of loss and damage. We will also remain positioned to assist the Government where allowed and those that have suffered loss and damage. We encourage us all to continue to lend a helping hand.
On a sad note, one life was lost during the flooding. Though we cannot say the cause of death, we extend our sincerest sympathy to the family of Curven Rigby. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God be with the family as they deal with this sudden loss.
Let us remain focused on the continuing efforts to restore these Islands and to work on addressing the serious deficiencies in our storm water drainage and disaster mitigation plans.
