Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque arrived in Dominica yesterday to assist the island in its recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Erika.
LaRocque, who is a Dominican, said he is here to lend support as the Caricom Secretary General and as a son of the soil.
He said that he has been coordinating with the Prime Minister from the day of the storm, trying to mobilise support regionally and internationally.
LaRocque noted there has been an outpouring of support for Dominica within CARICOM and further afield. Even the ordinary man-in-the-street wants to assist the island’s recovery efforts, he said.
He added that the private sector of Guyana, Barbados and Trinidad have indicated their willingness to assist Dominica.
Further, the Guyana Government has said it will send a consignment of rice to the island and is willing to send military personnel to assist in recovery efforts, La Rocque said.
I am very glad to see the effort of our regiona leaders returning home to assist the country in time of need. I am sure we can mobilize some resources to design a new platform for sustainable growth and development because by doing this we can build a solid foundation for prosperity so that we can become self reliant.
Natural disasters are part of the package but we must redesign our social, economic and political platform to deal with it if it occurs. We must strengthen regional and international relations with everyone, no country should be left out because we can learn something from everyone. There are about one hundred and ninety three countries and I don’t think we have relations with some so we need to get our leaders both regionally and internationally to build relationships with more countries so that we can benefit from their experience and support. We could benefit from a futuristic policy that engages country not just for what they can give us but what they teach us
Am from Portsmouth I hope I get some rice supply
For me, what is most heartening about the regional response in particular is the support of the PEOPLE (as distinct from institutions) who have found a place in their hearts for Dominicans in their hour of need. I hope the thoughtfulness and generosity of Caribbean brothers and sisters will resonate with all Dominicans and generate closer bonds and a wave of togetherness.
you are so right. for a change, in your comment, I see the plural form of (PERSON\’S) and I am happy you highlight the word PEOPLE. I don\’t know where that (persons) come from. Thanks