Return of electricity enabling resumption of businesses, says Seiveright

 

State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Delano Seiveright, says the return of electricity has been a major enabler of business reopening, supply chain normalisation, and community stability, particularly in heavily affected parishes.

 

More than 84 per cent of customers have now had power restored, supported by a major mobilisation of technical personnel.

 

Minister Seiveright says direct government intervention has resulted in significant progress in electricity restoration, following extensive damage to the national grid.

 

"So more than 84 per cent of customers now reconnected, and, of course, that's supported now by large-scale mobilisation that includes 300 linesmen from overseas and, of course, quite a bit of equipment to ensure that the hardest hit areas are restored as quickly as possible. The return of electricity has enabled businesses to reopen and that, in part, will stabilise communities and accelerate broader recovery efforts," he reasoned.  

 

He said the ministry will continue to work closely with private sector partners to support business recovery and reopening. 

 

"To further support workers now, the government has, of course, approved tax exempt disaster relief honoraria of up to $200,000 per employee. So that would ensure direct assistance to employees without an added tax burden, and that's very important. Beyond that, recovery continues, but the strong public-private collaboration remains central to rebuilding stronger and more resilient communities," the state minister declared.