Improved connectivity expected in western Jamaica this week

 

Transport and Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says he expects improved connectivity and fuel supplies to western Jamaica this week. 

 

"Flow has indicated that Sav-la-Mar has been restored. Digicel is also indicating successes. So communication is coming back slowly, but surely. The gasoline retailers are telling me that they are finally able to get the tankers in to the areas for fuel for the gas stations. So they are improvements, slow, but sure," said the minister, who expressed optimism that more marooned communities would be reached this week. 

 

While he acknowledged the frustration, anger and anxiety being felt by some who have been awaiting assistance, Mr. Vaz warned that doing "anything that will disrupt these operations will only delay the assistance that you so badly need".

 

Mr. Vaz also disclosed that tonnes of emergency relief supplies are to arrive in the island this week.

 

Several flights arrived on Sunday.

 

"We had a record 77 flights into Nama and Miami International Airport - 47 commercial flights and 30 relief flights. And I expect that number of relief flights to be extended today, moving from 20 to the day before to 30. And I'm sure that all we need to do, which is what I'm trying to do, is arrange the logistics to be able to get and take the stuff off so the planes can go back and new planes can come in. And again, thank you to the US government and all our partners for all you are doing," he said. 

 

Meanwhile, a shipment of life-saving emergency supplies was set to arrive in the island from the European Union and other stakeholders Monday morning to support national relief efforts. 

 

The EU, France and the Netherlands in partnership with the United Nations agencies and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency have joined forces to deliver the critical aid. 

 

Additionally, the fourth largest charity in America, Direct Relief, is expected to send a chartered aircraft with medication and medical supplies by November 8.