#Nassau, 28 November, 2019 – Bahamas – During a meeting with United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Ms. Mariko Kagoshima about relief and reconstruction efforts on Grand Bahama and Abaco, Prime Minister Minnis welcomed the offer of assistance by the United Nations for Haitian residents affected by Hurricane Dorian,
The Prime Minister and Ms. Kagoshima discussed what
role the UN can play to help Haitian residents displaced by the hurricane and
relief initiatives being spearheaded by UN agencies, including: UNICEF (United
Nations Children’s Fund), PAHO (Pan-American Health Organization), WFP (World
Food Programme) and the IOM (International Organization for Migration).
During the meeting held on Monday 25 November,
Prime Minster Minnis emphasised that undocumented residents will be treated
humanely.
He noted that all residents affected by Hurricane
Dorian were provided with shelter, food and other social assistance regardless
of immigration status following the storm, and repatriations were suspended for
a period of time.
The Prime Minister reiterated that anyone living in
The Bahamas without legal status will be repatriated, according to the laws of
The Bahamas.
As has always been the case, Haitian residents who
qualify will be provided with the opportunity to be regularised as laid out in
the Constitution, said Prime Minister Minnis.
Ms. Kagoshima praised The Bahamas Government’s
response to Hurricane Dorian, and thanked the Government for working with the
UN.
Prime Minister Minnis thanked the UN for its continued and valuable support in the immediate response and reconstruction following Hurricane Dorian.
Release: Office of the Prime Minister
Commonwealth of The Bahamas