Government officials have praised the efforts of members of the society who sprang into action to clean up their communities and assist neighbours in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Philippe. Philippe’s passage over the Virgin Islands on Wednesday morning resulted in significant flooding and landslides in various areas.
By 5 a.m. that morning, community members were already seen working together to clear roads and drains, assisting neighbours whose homes may have been damaged, and assessing their communities to report any utility concerns to the necessary local authorities. Acting Premier, The Honourable Lorna Smith OBE, commended the volunteers for keeping the spirit of generosity alive in the Virgin Islands.
Similarly, Honourable Kye Rymer, Representative for the 5th District, acknowledged members of his team at the Ministry for Infrastructure and private individuals for rising to the occasion.
The Minister for Education, the Honourable Sharie de Castro, highlighted the solidarity and approach of educators as a significant factor that enabled her ministry to respond quickly to the challenges facing schools that day.
Representative for the 4th District, the Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, expressed her appreciation and emphasized how rapidly things were being cleared up thanks to the efforts of community members.