07 September 2017
The Chief Minister made the following statement:
'On behalf of the Government and people of
Jersey I send my heartfelt sympathies to all those who have suffered loss and
grief caused by the destructive passage of Hurricane Irma through the
Caribbean.
Many island states, including the
British Virgin Islands and Anguilla - which like Jersey are part of the wider
British community - have suffered devastating losses. In other islands,
including the French speaking community of St Martin, fatalities have been
reported, and we do not yet know what the level of destruction will be in Haiti.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all the deceased and those
still at risk.
As a small Island, we can
appreciate the devastating effect that natural disasters can have on our
day-to-day lives. We also know that, as an Island, we can draw on the
extraordinary resilience and spirit that comes from being part of a close-knit
community. I am certain that the people of the Caribbean Islands will draw on
that same strength of community as they rebuild their homes, their schools and
their lives. We must support them in that endeavour.
The Government of Jersey is
currently examining the most pressing needs and options for providing humanitarian
aid. We will also offer digital infrastructure support to Caribbean businesses
as they rebuild. I would encourage Islanders to contribute to the relief funds
that have been established to support reconstruction in the region. I will also
be working closely with the Bailiff’s Chambers and Jersey Overseas Aid on the
establishment of a local disaster appeal, which will allow Islanders to
contribute much-needed funds.'
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