Senator the Honourable Satyakama Maharaj, Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism, today commended the outstanding first response of Trinidad and Tobago’s private sector in support of disaster relief efforts for Jamaica following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Last week, Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC directed the formation of an interministerial committee to coordinate Trinidad and Tobago’s Disaster Relief Support for Jamaica. The committee includes the Ministries of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Defence, Homeland Security, Works and Infrastructure, Public Utilities, and Rural Development and Local Government.
Within 48 hours of the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the coordinated efforts of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA), the Supermarkets Association, and the wider corporate community resulted in eight containers of relief supplies, valued at TT$4.8 million in goods and cash contributions, sailing to Jamaica.
Minister Maharaj praised the private sector’s rapid mobilisation, “This effort reflects the strength of regional solidarity and the vital role of public-private partnerships in responding to humanitarian crises,” he said.
The Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism continues to work closely with stakeholders to ensure the timely delivery of aid and support. Members of the public and corporate entities wishing to contribute can do so via the Joint Chambers Relief Fund at First Citizens Bank, Point Lisas:
- Chequing Account No. 2818368
- Savings Account No. 2818367
Donations of goods can also be dropped off at PLIPDECO Sheds 1 and 2, Point Lisas.
For general coordination and related queries on corporate donations:
Contact the MTTI’s Communications Unit – Ms. Samantha Rampersad via (868) 623-2931 ext 2724 or at samantha.s.rampersad@gov.tt.
