“Right now our thoughts are with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and the people of Dominica. Preliminary information is that we have widespread devastation in Dominica,” said Minister Montoute. “From our understanding they are facing a very critical situation and our prayers are with them, as our sister and neighbour. We have to respond and do what we can to assist our brothers and sisters in Dominica.”

Acting Prime Minister Montoute added that communication has been made with the French and Venezuelan authorities in terms of assistance.

Said Minister Montoute: “Saint Lucia will be used as the base for relief efforts into Dominica because, as you can well appreciate, the airports are not operational; neither are the sea ports. Reconnaissance flights will have to be made to ascertain the actual situation on the ground and for immediate preparation to be made for the landing of helicopters and other aircrafts. We are looking at what assistance we can give immediately and that may entail medical assistance and sending medical personnel and people with expertise in search and rescue. We are hoping that by this evening an assessment of the situation would have been made and we can get a better appreciation of the kind of assistance that is immediately required.”

With Saint Lucia being used as an operational base for the humanitarian effort, the Government has agreed in conjunction with the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Port Authority to waive fees and facilitate the use of warehouse facilities for receipt and distribution.

Saint Lucia is coordinating with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission on the response efforts. Persons willing to provide assistance are asked to contact the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) at 758-452-3802 or email: admin@nemo.gov.lc.