DART Returns from Dominica

The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), which was deployed to Dominica in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, has returned to the island, having assisted with rebuilding operations in that country.

This was disclosed by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, during a Statement to the House of Representatives on Tuesday (December 5).

The team was deployed to the Caribbean territory for two months, where they provided engineering work, debris-removal assistance, security, logistics management of relief supplies as well as health services.

“Of specific significance is that the bridge leading to one of the main tourist attractions – the Wotten Waven Hot Springs – was destroyed. The JDF engineers… constructed that bridge, so that the attraction can be opened next year for the winter season when their cruise ships come,” Mr. Holness said.

He added that the repaired bridge is scheduled to be opened in January 2018. The 130-man disaster assistance team was led by Colonel Jamie O’Gilvie.