Commander Stephen Russell, director of The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, said he was pleased with the level of public response to the relief effort for residents of Inagua who suffered during Hurricane Ike.
He made the statement as he accepted an estimated $100,000 worth in building materials, the first shipment, from a group of businesses for the reconstruction of properties damaged when the category 4 Hurricane Ike struck the island on September 7.
Commander Stephen Russell, Director of NEMA said that the agency was “truly pleased and appreciative of the building materials which will start our reconstruction process.”
About 300 structures suffered roof damage during the storm; 10 homes completely destroyed. A number of volunteer groups have already pledged their support to rebuilding Inagua.
Donated were:
2000 Hurricane Clips, left end
2000 Hurricane Clops, right tend
570 – 5/8 CDX Plywood
140, # 30 Felt
70, # 15 Felt
2,400 pounds of Roofing Nails 1 ¼
200 pounds Tin Tabs 1 5/8
10 Skill Circular Saw 2.3 amps
288 30-year Amber Shingles
48, 7 ¼ circular Saw Blades
The materials were shipped on board the MV, VI-Nais from the Potters Cay Dock. Also on board were utility poles of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation and materials of Bahamas Telecommunications Company to restore electricity and telephone services to the island.
Mark Roberts from FYP Builders Mall and Tile King, who coordinated the effort, said “there is everything you need to get your roofs back in shape. That’s the most important thing, to get people out of the elements.”
Lt Michael Hanna of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force said once the materials reach Inagua, marines posted there would assist the Family Island Administrator in securing the items until time for distribution.
John Nixon, NEMA’s representative in Inagua will coordinate the repairs and ensure that the materials be “equitably distributed” amongst those whose properties were damaged during the storm.
Meanwhile, Commander Russell, who instituted a 10-day relief phase, said he was satisfied with the progress thus far.
“We are way ahead of schedule. We are gradually moving into the restoration period,” he said, adding that water was restored to Inagua, through efforts by the Water and Sewerage Corporation.