HAMILTON, Bermuda – Remarks by Bermuda’s Premier, Dr. The Hon. Ewart F. Brown, JP MP in response to earthquake in Haiti:
I am devastated, as I’m sure we all are, by the news of the loss of life and extensive destruction caused by an earthquake hitting Haiti yesterday afternoon. On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I extend condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives. I also offer our thoughts and prayers to those around the world who have families in Haiti and who are grieving the loss of loved ones back home or who do not yet know the fate of their loved ones.
The Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing, Lieutenant Colonel David Burch last evening requested His Excellency the Governor and the Commanding Officer of the Bermuda Regiment to identify volunteers for a possible humanitarian mission to Haiti under the auspices of CARICOM.
Additionally, other Ministry resources are being identified should the need arise.
Haiti has already suffered the effects of powerful hurricanes in 2008 and it continues to grapple with economic misfortunes of a high order. It is all the more urgent that support is necessary now.
It is said that much is expected from those to whom much is given. Notwithstanding some of our present difficulties, we in Bermuda are fortunate to be in a position to help.
When it is clearer what help we can give as a community in the days and weeks ahead, I will be asking you to respond with Bermuda’s usual generosity. We expect that we may be able to offer help with shelter, food, clothing and medical supplies, along with financial donations.
We will be in contact with CDEMA (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency) and PAHO (the Pan American Health Organization) who are coordinating efforts in the wake of this terrible disaster.
Haiti, despite its present difficulties, has an
extraordinary history of resilience in the face of natural and man-made disasters. We know that their resiliency will carry them forward at this time. We are grateful that we are able to offer our support.
The Red Cross has set up accounts at HSBC Bermuda (Bank of Bermuda) and the Bank of Butterfield to which donations can be made to support emergency response operations of the Haiti Red Cross.
You may also make donations to Yéle Haiti (formerly the Wyclef Jean Foundation). Wyclef Jean started Yéle Haiti as a movement to help bring hope to Haiti.
