PM Commends ODPEM
By: , October 3, 2016The Key Point:
Photo: Mark Bell
Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness (left), addresses an emergency meeting to discuss preparation for Hurricane Matthew, at the Office of the Prime Minister on September 29. Seated (from left) are Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Senator the Hon. Ruel Reid and Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie.The Facts
- He noted that the entity’s role in disaster planning, management and response is integral in reducing the impact of the system on the country.
The Full Story
Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, is commending the work of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) as the country prepares for the passage of Hurricane Matthew.
He noted that the entity’s role in disaster planning, management and response is integral in reducing the impact of the system on the country.
“The focus after the hurricane will be on recovery and response and that is critical, as how well we do this will determine the speed of the country’s recovery,” the Prime Minister noted.
“Government cannot be slow in its leadership and response,” he added.
He was speaking during a visit to the National Operating Centre (NOC) at ODPEM’s Haining Road office in Kingston on Sunday (Oct. 2).
Meanwhile, Local Government and Community Development Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said there are 900 shelters available across the island and many of them are already opened and are being occupied.
“Over 5,000 tarpaulins, blankets and water containers; and nearly 10,000 mattresses and cots have already been distributed,” he informed.
Minister McKenzie continues to appeal for persons living in low-lying and flood prone areas to relocate.