The Department of Disaster Management has at long last had an opportunity, on Tuesday, July 7, to inform members of the House of Assembly about its programmes and plans, the need to fund critical activities and employ additional staff from its low budget and other related matters.
Leave to address the House was granted by the Speaker, Mr. Leroy Rogers, who said the request by the Department had been made for some time now through its Director, Ms. Melissa Meade.
Just before the convening of the House, Ms. Meade told The Anguillian about the need to speak to the House of Assembly members. “The Department of Disaster Management felt that we should make the Assembly aware of what our role is, and what its role is in assisting us in doing what we do to ensure that the island is prepared for every emergency, and to respond appropriately,” she stated.
Ms Meade said her Department had been trying since last year to update the House of Assembly on various aspects of its work and needs. She explained that the overview included imploring the legislators to see that her Department needed resources in terms of budgetary support and allocations requiring legislative commitments. Among other needs she mentioned the filling of such posts as a Deputy Director and Programme Officer (Logistics).
Ms. Meade’s overview was wide in its scope, but concise, and was presented in a manner that was well-understood, enlightening and convincing. It was well-received, and the hope is that there will be some action to fulfil the needs and aspirations of the Department of Disaster Management to prepare and protect Anguilla for, and from, all forms of disaster.
She was supported by a number of her senior colleagues who accompanied her to the House of Assembly where she addressed the gathering aided by a chart and projector.
