The Hon. Aloun N’Dombet-Assamba, Minister of Industry and Tourism, expressed thanks and gratitude to fellow Jamaicans and visitors who demonstrated courage, cooperation, and faith during Hurricane Ivan. She also stated that Jamaica is looking toward the future and recovery efforts are underway with the goal of restoring life back to normal as quickly as possible.Prime Minister P.J. Patterson met with Cabinet members and the National Disaster Relief Committee last night where he announced the latest news on the recovery efforts. He commended the generous support received by fellow Caribbean countries, Canada, United States, United Kingdom, Venezuela, Mexico, and the United Nations.

Volunteers from relief organisations all over the world are travelling to Jamaica to provide aid to the citizens of Jamaica in rebuilding and restoring their lives. Relief funds have been set up by the Jamaican Consul General in New York and the Jamaican High Commission in London for monetary donations. A needs list has been compiled by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and this will be circulated shortly through the embassies and consulates.

A full assessment of the damage to the island is underway but not completed. Most roads are open and work is being done on water supply and communications restoration.Ê Electricity services have been restored in some parts of Kingston and Montego Bay and are progressing to other areas.

Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay and the Norman Manley Airport in Kingston are open for business.

All government ministries and agencies are opened. Schools will open today except those that are still being used as shelters or are experiencing difficulties with their normal utilities supply.

Details and the most current updates on Jamaica’s response to Hurricane Ivan are posted on the Jamaica Tourist Board Web site at www.visitjamaica.com
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