2017 hurricane aid distribution to be investigated!
On January 12, 2018 the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) announced “that the processes used to distribute aid to the affected communities throughout the Territory following the impacts of hurricanes” are to be audited.
Head of the Community Relations Department and Disaster Coordinator for the Royal Grenada Police Force, Superintendent Sylvan McIntyre will visit the VI in the next two weeks to conduct the audit financed by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
McIntyre, who is a former National Disaster Coordinator in Grenada, is also a key member of the Regional Response Team and serves as a critical member of the Regional Needs Assessment Team that supports country level response operations. He has been with the CDEMA mechanism for over 15 years, according to the local DDM statement.
The rumor mill on distributions
There have been reports and allegations that elected officials were giving items only to their supporters, workers were allegedly stealing relief supplies, many of the goods were left to spoil and that one politician was selling items at a place of business.
It was even said that DDM workers had stacks of aid at their homes and that you only got supplies depending on who you were, what party you supported and who you knew. Government has denied any knowledge of these allegations and it is hoped that the audit will unearth the truth.
Some residents also complained that they were not aware where the distribution centers were, and who they had to approach to obtain items.
Others claimed they were treated with disrespect from aid distribution center workers, including elected officials, who allegedly asked “why were some of you in the lines for items.”
Many residents had expressed publicly that they preferred all international and local aid and even money to be given to local non-governmental organisations such and the BVI Red Cross, Rotary Clubs and churches.
They wanted the distribution of goods and other aid out of the hands of the politicians.
There is a general mistrust of the ruling National Democratic Party (NDP) Government.
Why the investigation?
McIntyre stated, “It is important that the BVI fully document the steps taken in its relief distribution programmes launched following the impacts from three unprecedented events. A significant amount of aid was provided and must be accounted for. The audit being applied is intended to fully document the steps taken and to provide recommendations on how the process can be improved to ensure effective delivery to the intended beneficiaries for future,” according to the press statement distributed by the Government Information Services late last week.
41 Responses to “2017 hurricane aid distribution to be investigated!”
Some were, and some were provided by private people and churches. But the big shipments were flown by
British helicoptors to the distribution points and then weren't distributed by the local side of it. Sick.
There were plenty non prepared for the inevitable waiting on Gov and handouts which is the new norm. Bet for the next disaster they will still be there waiting solely on Gov.
But East End!!! Huu
I honestly believe those distribution announcements on the radio and online news were only to make it seem to the outside world that things were under control but IT WAS NOT!
And if Ms Dabreo knew about cat 5 storms and her compromised building she should of use wisdom and find shelter in a more secure building. She put herself and staff in danger.