More hurricane relief for Jamaica

Prime Minister Phillips during the inspection visit

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Tuesday afternoon inspected relief supplies destined for Jamaica as Guyana continues to support regional neighbours affected by hurricane-related disasters.

The inspection took place at the John Fernandes Wharf, where emergency items were being prepared for shipment as part of Guyana’s contribution to Jamaica’s hurricane relief efforts. The assistance comes amid ongoing recovery operations in Jamaica following severe weather impacts that affected communities, infrastructure, and essential services.

Speaking during the visit, Prime Minister Phillips said Guyana would continue to play its part in helping neighbouring countries during times of need, noting that regional cooperation remains critical when disasters strike.
“What it means to Jamaica is in keeping with the needs of the people of Jamaica,” Phillips said, explaining that the support being provided is guided by assessments from disaster management authorities.

He pointed out that Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management works alongside Guyana’s Civil Defence Commission, with both agencies coordinating through the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). According to the Prime Minister, these institutions are responsible for managing disaster response at the national and regional levels and for sharing critical information.

“We have our Civil Defence Commission, which does the same function in Guyana, manages disaster. Then we have the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency. So these two national agencies and the regional agency will be working together, sharing information,” Phillips said.

The Prime Minister noted that the relief items being sent were not selected at random but were identified based on needs communicated through official channels. “What we are sending to Jamaica is guided by needs,” he said, adding that disaster response can be complex and requires careful coordination.

Guyana has consistently supported regional disaster relief efforts, including previous assistance to Caribbean states affected by hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. The government has emphasised that solidarity within CARICOM is essential, particularly as climate-related events increase in frequency and intensity across the region.

The relief shipment to Jamaica includes essential supplies intended to support affected communities during the recovery phase, as authorities there continue to assess damage and restore services following the passage of the hurricane.