Cabinet agrees to put up US$150,000 to assist in Hurricane relief

In the wake of two hurricanes that have devastated the Northern Caribbean, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has announced that his Government will be giving financial assistance to Cuba and Haiti.{{more}}

Following the Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, Cuba and Haiti, including other countries, have suffered great damage to human lives, crops, livestock and infrastructure.

The Cabinet has decided to donate US$100,000 to the Cuban government. Half of this amount will come from the central government and half from state enterprises: the National Commercial Bank and VINLEC are each donating US$20,000 and the National Airport Development Company is donating US$10,000 jointly with National Properties Ltd.

Haiti will receive US$50,000 from the Vincentian government, as well as water and food supplies. Prime Minister Gonsalves reminded the public that earlier this year, the Government donated rice to Haiti.

Although some may criticise the amounts being sent, Gonsalves reminded his audience that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not a rich country, but is sincere in its donation. “We are part of a regional and international community and we have to show our solidarity,” he affirmed. He further pointed out that should disaster strike our island, we would want other countries to assist us in our time of need.(JSV)