Grand Cayman, 18 July 2024: The Honourable Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly responded swiftly to the urgent needs of the Eastern Caribbean, leading a delegation early Tuesday to Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This mission underscores the Cayman Islands’ commitment to providing aid to those impacted by Hurricane Beryl at the onset of the hurricane season. The relief effort involved transporting approximately 17,500 pounds of cargo, valued at over $100,000 USD, via Cayman Airways, the national airline of the Cayman Islands.

“We are truly blessed as a nation and people to be able to assist our brothers and sisters. Together, we can be a stronger region. The Lord spared us from Beryl that we may help,” said Premier O’Connor-Connolly to the delegation as they embarked on their journey.

The cargo included supplies such as generators, chainsaws, shovels, rakes, tarpaulins, air mattresses, as well as toiletries and non-perishable food items. The Health Services Authority (HSA) and Health City Cayman Islands provided vital medical supplies. Additionally, Premier O’Connor-Connolly, in her role as Minister for Education, delivered educational books donated by LIFE (Literacy is For Education) with the Department of Education Services.

The Cayman delegation, accompanied by the Grenadian Prime Minister, then proceeded to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), where they were greeted by Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves and other officials. A brief ceremony was held on the tarmac, during which Premier O’Connor-Connolly gifted St. Vincent and the Grenadines USD$500,000 along with supplies valued at USD$50,000.

Hon. Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly and Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

“The one commonality that we share is that we are all human. Storms do not know faces, names, or countries. Although Hurricane Ivan was 20 years ago, the memory is still fresh in my mind,” Premier O’Connor-Connolly shared during her visit. “I remain mindful that it is still early days yet in the hurricane season and that we must continue to be on our guard and be prepared.”

On the ground, Hazard Managment Cayman Islands and Cayman Airways crew collaborated with local disaster management authorities to ensure the safe offloading of cargo. Following the approval of the aid, discussions focused on specific areas of support, including rebuilding infrastructure and providing medical supplies and goods for the most vulnerable populations. 

This trip marks the first wave of relief support that the Cayman Islands will be providing to those impacted within the Caribbean region by Hurricane Beryl. Additional islands that will benefit are Barbados and neighbouring island Jamaica. In total, KYD$1 million has been approved to support the four countries impacted in the region. Supplies and goods were sourced from local businesses and health care providers who supported the effort.

Hon. Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada

Through this humanitarian mission, the Cayman Islands reaffirms their dedication to regional solidarity and resilience in the face of natural disasters.