Attorney General Highlights Significance of Observing International Day for Disaster Reduction
By: Chaïra Flanders
Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 14, 2019 (ZIZ News): Attorney-General, The Honourable Vincent Byron Jr., highlighted the significance of commemorating International Day for Disaster Reduction during an address to the nation during International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on Sunday October 13 2019.
“The significance of commemorating International Day for Disaster Reduction lies in the fact that St. Kitts and Nevis and other countries can build resilience to disasters, promote sustainable development, protect the citizenry, their property, livelihoods, health, as well as cultural and environmental assets.”
He said International Day for Disaster Reduction gives us an opportunity to “reflect on our current systems and plans, to mitigate against disasters and to craft plans for the sustainability of the Federation”.
Minister Byron explained that the Ministry of National Security through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), volunteers, private institutions and, other stakeholders used this occasion to reflect on achievements in reducing the risk of disasters
He then used the opportunity to commend NEMA for making prevention the primary focus of disaster management strategy and expressed government’s confidence in the agency.
He said, “I am therefore satisfied that NEMA being guided by the National Disaster Plan for Comprehensive Disaster Management and encompassing the participation of a wide range of stakeholders in ensuring that mitigation and prevention are the primary focus of disaster management strategy for the Federation. NEMA has reassured the Government that St. Kitts and Nevis stands ready to respond to any disastrous impacts, ensuring everyone’s involvement, most specifically that of our public and private sectors; as well as, our volunteers.”
He remind the public that we are still in the 2019 Atlantic Hurricane Season advised citizens and residents to pay attention to public advisories issued by the National Disaster Mitigation Council, NEMA, the Met Office and other related agencies.
The International Day for Disaster Reduction was observed under the theme, “Build To Last”.
