Premier leads Relief Mission to Jamaica

The Cayman Islands Government has pledged approximately US $1.2 million dollars in essential supplies and goods to support Jamaica’s recovery, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. An initial shipment of relief items valued at nearly US $200,000 dollars was delivered today, underscoring Cayman’s commitment to provide swift, coordinated assistance.

Premier Honourable André M. Ebanks led the delegation, which included Government ministers Hon. Jay Ebanks and Hon. Nickolas DaCosta, Leader of the Opposition Joey Hew, other government officials and personnel from Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI), who coordinated the delivery of the essential supplies in partnership with the Jamaican authorities. Cayman's national airline, Cayman Airways Limited (CAL), flew the delegation from Grand Cayman to Kingston aboard a chartered B737-8 jet and was the first relief flight to land in Jamaica. The shipment of relief supplies was coordinated based on discussions with the Government of Jamaica following their preliminary needs assessment. The items included medical supplies, generators, meals ready to eat, tarpaulins, first aid kits, mattresses, among other things.

Speaking at a press briefing hosted by the Government of Jamaica, Premier Ebanks emphasised Cayman's deep heritage and history with Jamaica and expressed solidarity with the Jamaican people.

“We have had our own experience with Hurricane Ivan and Jamaica was there for Cayman. So, we got on the first flight that we could to pledge our support. We have brought over an initial round of about US$ 200,000 dollars essential supplies. We also have pledged, and I have written a letter signed by myself to your Prime Minister of about US $1.2 million dollars of essential supplies and resources we will have shipped directly to Jamaica. On behalf of myself and the Government ministers who are here, and the Leader of the Opposition, Cayman stands with Jamaica."

With this initial donation, the Cayman Islands has delivered on its commitment to provide swift humanitarian relief to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa. The aid reflects Caribbean values of unity, cooperation and compassion in times of need.

Premier Ebanks also thanked Mr. Joe Marzouca Honorary Consul to Jamaica, HMCI along with other Cayman Islands Government agencies, and the medical community (Health Services Authority, Doctors Hospital and Health City Cayman Islands) for their quick response and demonstration of support through the donations of the much-needed relief supplies. He reiterated that there will be a sustained relief effort to support the recovery of Jamaica with additional relief to come such as additional medical support, extra flights and needs as they may arise for the people of Jamaica. The Cayman Islands stands resolute in its commitment to support Jamaica on the road to recovery.

For accurate information and to support Cayman’s Hurricane relief efforts, visit http://caymanprepared.ky/melissarelief.