Bahamas: PM Minnis calls on citizens to unite and help each other amid Hurricane Dorian devastation

Bahamians who have not been impacted by Hurricane Dorian are being urged to open their homes and hearts to those who have suffered loss as a result of the passage of the monster storm.

The call came from Prime Minister Hubert Minnis who also urged the entire country to stay united amid the “historic tragedy”.

“As Bahamians we must unite with the singular focus of helping our brothers and sisters in need. We must stay united as a people to bring immediate assistance, to bring hope, to bring recovery and to rebuild lives,” he said at a press conference yesterday evening.

“Due to the extent of the devastation, when weather permits and transportation resumes, I ask Bahamians and residents on islands not devastated by the storm to open their homes to friends and family who are in need.

Your compassion at this most difficult hour will bring healing and hope to those who are traumatized by this destructive storm. Bahamians have a charitable spirit. There are many who are ready to give generously. Please ensure that you donate funds and items to reputable charitable organizations with records of service to the community. We want to be careful to avoid past mistakes where non-reputable organizations and individuals attempting to take advantage of the suffering and distress of others,” he added.

The Prime Minister also urged residents not to spread false information about the damage caused by Hurricane Dorian.

“There appear to be a number of fake and incorrect reports circulating.

Please do not resend or transmit reports or images, which appear to be untrue. Many people in affected areas as well as their loved ones in the Bahamas and overseas are understandably worried. Please do not add to their anxiety and worries,” he said. “This is not the time to be creating mischief and playing on the emotions of others, especially those who are vulnerable at this time.”

Several regional and international governments have offered support and aid for The Bahamas. And Minnis said exigency orders have been prepared to allow donated and purchased relief supplies from registered charitable organizations to enter the affected areas free of customs duty and VAT in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. The orders cover Abaco, the Abaco Cays, Grand Bahama, Sweeting’s Cay, Deep Water Cay and Water Cay.

“Landing fees will also be waived in the affected areas, as well as departure taxes and customs processing fees for non-commercial flights,” he said.

“In addition to goods traditionally exempted after past hurricanes, we are including in these orders: medicine and medical supplies, electrical generators, tents, cots, bedding material and mosquito nettings.”

Minnis said individuals affected by Hurricane Dorian are included in the Exigency Orders subject to verification by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

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