#Nassau, October 19, 2019 – Bahamas – Secretary-General
of the Organization of American States (OAS), Mr. Luis Almagro, congratulated
Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis on the Government’s leadership
and response to Hurricane Dorian, during a courtesy call at the Office of the
Prime Minister on Friday 18 October.
The
Prime Minister and Secretary-General Almagro discussed Hurricane Dorian
recovery and reconstruction efforts on Abaco and Grand Bahama, including the
importance of adopting a renewable energy strategy as the country rebuilds with
greater resilience.
Prime
Minister Minnis also pointed to the need for additional psychological
counseling for affected residents, especially among children.
The
Secretary-General invited Prime Minister Minnis to make a presentation to the OAS
Permanent Council on Hurricane Dorian’s impact on The Bahamas in an effort to
bring awareness to its member states and the wider global community.
The
Prime Minister thanked Secretary-General Almagro and his team for their visit
and interest in continuing to help The Bahamas.
The
OAS has already donated $25,000 to the Hurricane Dorian relief effort through
the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). A number of OAS member-states
have also offered support and financial assistance.
The
Canadian government has made a donation of $150,000. Costa Rica, Mexico and
Dominican Republic provided assistance through emergency supplies. The
Dominican Republic has also offered financial assistance in the amount of
$100,000.
Columbia
offered technical and financial assistance, and the United States Government
was instrumental in providing emergency rescue and evacuation assistance
through the US Coast Guard.
Minister
of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Darren Henfield, Foreign Affairs officials and NEMA
officials were also in attendance.
Release: Office of the Prime Minister
Commonwealth of The Bahamas