Two naval support ships from the United Kingdom are expected to assist the British Virgin Islands in the event of a natural disaster.
Governor John Rankin made the disclosure during a statement on Tuesday June 1, where he revealed that the UK has provided support to the territory through the vessels, should the need arise for assistance.
He said, “As a Territory, we must plan for the possibility of a disaster that we could not face on our own. Like other Caribbean Territories, the Virgin Islands stand to benefit from the support of the United Kingdom in the form of two naval support ships this hurricane season.”
“One is in Caribbean waters year-round, and the other is here for the hurricane season. Both ships stand ready to provide humanitarian aid and disaster relief should we see a major impact such as a hurricane, earthquake or flood,” Governor Rankin explained.
Preparedness efforts underway
The Governor also encouraged members of the public to commence their preparedness efforts, and stated that measures have already been taken by his Office to ready the public sector ahead of the predicted busy hurricane season.
“As Governor, my primary concern is to maintain the safety and security of our Territory, and this remains especially true during the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Preparedness efforts have been underway for some time among the members of the National Security Council. In addition to updating their emergency operations plans and ensuring that the Territory’s security assets remain safeguarded; the Territory’s police and fire officers in particular are standing by to respond rapidly if needed,” Rankin further explained.
He added, “Elsewhere in the Public Service, ministries, departments and statutory bodies are carrying out their annual readiness assessments to ensure they are ready to continue to serve the people of the Virgin Islands throughout the hurricane season.”
The governor said the preparedness efforts are being guided by the National Disaster Management Council, which sets the Territorial preparedness priorities each year in accordance with the Disaster Management Act.