St. Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew joined the CARICOM leaders and visited Grenada on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 to assess the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Beryl.
Reportedly, the Category-04 hurricane made landfall on the islands of Carriacou, Petite Martinique and St. Vincent and The Grenadines on Monday, July 01, 2024 leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
PM Drew was conjoined by the Prime Minister of Grenada – Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Dominica – Roosevelt Skerrit and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia – Philip J. Pierre. Together they visited to several affected people in Grenada and Carriacou and it was heart wrenching to see the extent of the devastation.
It was a stark reminder of the existential threat of climate change, as the Caribbean countries vow to work together to help Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique through this most difficult time.
Prime Minister Drew also stated that they planned to visit PM Ralph Gonsalves in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in short period. According to Drew, the appeal for climate justice is an urgent one and we need a unified international approach to deal with the climate crisis.
Considering this, PM Drew expressed his deep concern for the people of Grenada and the surrounding islands. He said that the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of their region to natural disasters.
Drew stated that their heart was crying for the families who have lost their loved ones and those whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed. As they are committed to provide an immediate and sustained support to help rebuild and recover.
Notably, the prime ministers gathered together to discuss the most urgent needs and the best ways to deliver assistance. Their visit marked the significance of regional solidarity and cooperation in the face of such catastrophic events.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica and Saint Lucia mobilised resources to support Grenada’s recovery efforts and aimed to ensure that the aid is delivered swiftly and effectively to those in need.
PM Drew highlighted the resilience and strength of the Grenadian people that commended their spirit of unity and determination in the face of adversity. He expressed that together, they will rebuild stronger and more resilient communities. The Caribbean stands united in support of Grenada during the challenging time.
As per the further updates on the assessment and relief efforts will be provided as the situation gradually develops.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Drew continued to call for climate justice and for industrialised nations to cut their greenhouse gases emission which is important to save our planet.