In a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity, Prime Ministers from the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) visited St. Vincent and the Grenadines on July 16th, 2024, to witness firsthand the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica took the lead, contributing $1 million to the relief effort, underscoring the OECS leaders’ commitment to aid in the recovery and rebuilding of the hurricane-stricken nation.
The delegation included Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, Prime Minister Hon. Phillip J. Pierre of St. Lucia, and Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly of the Cayman Islands. Premier O’Connor-Connolly personally delivered essential supplies and a significant cash donation to Prime Minister Dr. The Hon. Ralph Gonsalves.
The tour encompassed visits to Union Island and Canouan, two of the hardest-hit areas. Union Island suffered extensive infrastructure damage and widespread destruction, while Canouan also faced substantial impacts affecting residents and businesses.
During a media briefing, Prime Minister Gonsalves expressed profound gratitude for the support from his OECS counterparts. “The solidarity shown by our regional leaders is a testament to the strength of our Caribbean community. Their visit and pledges of support are crucial as we begin the long journey of recovery and rebuilding,” he said.
Prime Minister Skerrit of Dominica, who has faced similar challenges in his country, stressed the importance of regional cooperation during crises. “We are here to support St. Vincent and the Grenadines, just as they have supported us in the past. Together, we will overcome this disaster,” he stated, emphasizing his $1 million contribution to the relief effort.
Prime Minister Mitchell of Grenada, also dealing with Hurricane Beryl’s impact in his own country, pledged his support to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “Despite our own struggles, we stand with our neighbors. Our unity is our strength,” he said.
Prime Minister Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Dr. Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Prime Minister Pierre of St. Lucia echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the shared resolve to support affected communities and enhance disaster preparedness and response across the region. The OECS leaders met briefly before Premier O’Connor-Connolly’s departure and then visited the southern Grenadines to further assess the damage and needs of the affected areas.