High Commission Launches Relief Fund

The Jamaican High Commission in London has launched a special Relief Fund, in response to the damage caused to the island by Tropical Storm Gustav last week.
The High Commission’s Fund will go to the national Disaster Recovery Fund, which has been launched by Prime Minister Bruce Golding.
In a statement to Parliament, the Prime Minister said while Gustav was not at hurricane strength during its passage across Jamaica, the effect was pronounced, because it moved so slowly with extended periods of heavy rainfall resulting in widespread flooding. A total of 12 persons are confirmed to have died in circumstances directly related to the effects of Gustav.
Jamaican High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Burchell Whiteman said the High Commission had started the fund to assist in a very practical way, the island’s swift recovery and return to normality.
He also expressed regret at the loss of life and damage to property caused by the tropical storm.
“I join with Jamaicans in the UK in expressing deep regret at the loss of life and damage to property across the country,” Mr. Whiteman said.
The UK-based Jamaicans have been registering their concerns about the damage caused by Tropical Storm Gustav and the JIS office in London has been able to provide regular update and information to scores of callers and e-mail requests.