The Valley, Anguilla (September 7, 2017) – Statement by Government of Anguilla: Anguilla has begun the response and recovery effort for the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, an island wide process coordinated by the National Emergency Operations Centre. A complete assessment is still underway, overseen jointly by His Excellency, Governor Tim Foy, and the Chief Minister, The Hon Victor Banks.
The latest assessment reports indicate that critical infrastructure, such as the hospital, airport, fire station, police station, government buildings and utilities received moderate to severe damage. Repair and road clearance crews are working diligently in efforts to restore conditions to pre-Irma status, and as the clean-up begins the full extent of the damage is being revealed. There was one confirmed fatality and the Government and people of Anguilla extend their deepest condolences to the family.
The British Government has deployed three humanitarian aid experts from the UK to assist with needs assessments and coordination, in addition to FCO and DFID staff that are already in the region. The British naval ship Royal Fleet Auxiliary Mounts Bay has arrived on island, with 40 Royal Marines and Army Engineers on board. The ship carries a range of equipment to support humanitarian responses including vehicles, tents and facilities to purify water.
“Anguillians are a resilient people, particularly in the face of adversity,” said the Hon. Victor Banks, Chief Minister. “We are one family, and the government is committed to securing the resources necessary to ensure that we rebuild and recover in short order from this misfortune. We intend to be open for business before the Christmas season.”