Rio Grande residents get food, medication
Published:Sunday | April 24, 2016 | 12:00 AMGareth Davis
PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
The relief efforts for those ravaged during the recent flood rains in the Rio Grande Valley of Portland is far advanced, with the distribution of medication and other supplies by West Portland Member of Parliament (MP) Daryl Vaz.
Vaz, who is also minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, responsible for economic growth, development, and the environment, is charged with the task of coordinating the relief efforts, while ensuring that the relevant state agencies, including the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), conduct the necessary assessments.
Vaz noted that a team from the MLSS has visited Mill Bank and other sections of the Rio Grande Valley.
"Three houses were destroyed during the heavy rainfall which occurred over the past three days. The Rio Grande Valley is vulnerable to rainfall and landslides and, therefore, it comes as no surprise that this part of Portland came in for a heavy battering. It is a farming community and, as a result, there is definitely a need to have the roadways cleared and the lives of those affected restored in the quickest possible time," Vaz told The Gleaner.
Husband and wife Owen and Inez Campbell have received medications for their chronic hypertensive and diabetic situation. The couple also received parcels of food.
"My house now lies in ruins. I lost all my money, which is covered by the landslide, along with all our medication. But I am thankful for the help as I have since received 30 days' supply of tablets to treat my hypertension, and my wife got her insulin and tablets to treat her diabetes. The food sent to us will go a far away as we lost everything during the landslide. We are really grateful for the help," he added.