Labour and Social Security Ministry activates disaster protocols

 

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has fully activated its disaster readiness protocols, including the preparation and strategic prepositioning of relief supplies. 

 

The ministry serves as the lead agency responsible for coordinating welfare activities during emergencies, including shelter management distribution of supplies, household damage assessments and the disbursement of emergency assistance where necessary. 

 

Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. says the ministry is working with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and across government to ensure that shelters are identified and relief officers are on standby.

 

The ministry's parish offices have also been providing updated reports in terms of their resources.

 

Mr. Charles says communication gaps were among the challenges faced following Hurricane Beryl last year and the ministry team is continuing discussions to address the issue.

 

"We have heard from and are in touch with Starlink and other providers to assist us if necessary. We have also reached out to our partners and the line of credit entities have been notified by our parish offices to ensure that we can preposition food as required. I know that St. Mary and the St. Thomas teams, as well as Portland, have already started to collect food packages and relief supplies, including bedding, tarpaulins and toiletries, to prepare in case. Because again, lessons learned - if you wait too long you won't be able to travel just in case there are any issues that cause barriers on the road," he acknowledged.

 

Mr. Charles was speaking Wednesday at a special media briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister to update the country on preparations for Tropical Storm Melissa. 

 

The ministry has also initiated discussions with the World Food Programme on the mechanisms for disbursing emergency grants in the aftermath of the storm. 

 

As it relates to vulnerable groups, Mr. Charles stated that the ministry is actively coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure targeted assistance is provided to these individuals.

 

Emergency hotlines will be circulated to facilitate the prompt reporting of needs and damage.