Let Us Rebuild
One Caribbean Nation.
Barbuda after Hurricane Irma |
The Mahogany Coconut
Group joins with all those expressing deep sadness, at the destruction of life and
property, caused by the vicious and relentless hurricane season. The region has
suffered tremendous and devastating loss and many Caribbean citizens in the
Diaspora have been also affected; since these acts of nature also devastated states
such as Florida and Texas, where many Caribbean nationals call home. We urge all
Caribbean nationals regardless of place of domicile and degree of suffering, to
reach out and support all efforts designed to bring relief and comfort for
those who have been affected.
Unfortunately, the
destruction caused by these natural disasters have exposed, in many ways, the
frailties of our regional infrastructure. Chattel houses (board) built often
with poor or no foundations, are no match for hurricane strength winds. Our
clogged drainage systems along with the inconsiderate dumping of
garbage-everything from paper cups to the skeletons of condemned vehicles- contribute
to making the task of rebuilding more difficult.
We are now confronted
with the herculean task of rebuilding entire communities and spending scarce
resources to ensure that a return to normalcy, is not delayed a day longer than
necessary. While we understand the concerns expressed regarding the effect on
the tourist industry, we respectfully state, that the Mahogany Coconut Group’s focus,
is the significant socio-economic setback, these acts of nature, have obviously
unleashed, on our already poor citizens.
Let us all put our
hands to the plough and participate in the rebuilding process both in the
Caribbean and the Diaspora.
Comments