The Director General of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has expressed sadness over Hurricane Beryl’s destructive path through the Caribbean, notably the storm’s severe impact on Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines both reported loss of life in the Category Four hurricane’s fury.
OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules extended his deepest condolences to the families and all those impacted by the extreme weather event.
Beryl was the earliest Category 4 Atlantic Hurricane on record to form in the hurricane season.
Dr. Jules said it was a stark reminder of the realities of climate change and its adverse impacts affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
“As a region, we must continue to remain vigilant and prepared against these impacts in what is only the beginning of an active hurricane season. Collective action and solidarity are now required to support all those affected,” Jules stated.
He disclosed that the OECS Commission was working to support Member States and called upon the international community and development partners to support the region’s rebuilding and resilience efforts.
The OECS Director-General commended the Saint Lucia Government for providing a helicopter to take the Prime Minister of Grenada around the affected areas.
The helicopter also transported urgently needed medical supplies.
In addition, Jules commended France for its assistance.
“As individual islands, we may be small, but as one region, together we can withstand and overcome all challenges,” he declared.
