CUC Supports Post-Hurricane Restoration Efforts in Jamaica

Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, Caribbean Utilities Company, Ltd. (CUC) is proud to join the restoration efforts in Jamaica. The hurricane made landfall late Tuesday, October 28, and the island nation has since been conducting damage assessments and entering the recovery phase.

As a member utility of the Caribbean Electric Utility Service Corporation (CARILEC), CUC has been in close coordination with the organization to determine how best to support electricity restoration efforts. Today, CUC is deploying a team of eleven employees to Jamaica, including seven powerline technicians, one supervisor and one coordinator who will remain on the island for 32 days to assist Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and other CARILEC member utilities in restoring power to affected communities.

To further aid in the recovery efforts, CUC has deployed two bucket trucks and a digger truck to facilitate the installation of utility poles and accelerate infrastructure repairs. The Company is also providing additional poles to support restoration work on the ground.

“We have been in ongoing communication with CARILEC and JPS since Hurricane Melissa passed,” said President and CEO, Mr. Richard Hew. “We are honoured to contribute to Jamaica’s recovery during this critical time and deeply proud of our team members for their selfless commitment to helping others in need in very difficult conditions.”

CUC extends its sincere thanks to Cayman Airways for their generous donation of airfare and baggage fees for the crew traveling to Jamaica, and Seaboard Marine and Department of Vehicles and Drivers’ Licensing for their guidance and assistance on shipping protocols.

Mr. Fabian Whorms, President and CEO at Cayman Airways Limited (CAL) said, “At Cayman Airways, we recognize the vital role that regional partnerships play in helping our Caribbean neighbors recover and rebuild after being devastated by major hurricanes. Having been the first airline to land in Kingston with relief aid following Hurricane Melissa, we remain committed to contributing to Jamaica’s recovery through partnerships with companies like CUC, who we commend for sending a team of experts from Cayman to assist with restoring electricity in Jamaica’s affected communities.”