- Updates from the Islands -

- - Grenada - -

• From: "Paradise Bay" <paradisebay AT caribsurf.com>
• Date: Mon, 18 Oct 2004 16:09:32 -0500

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 30 Sep 2004 23:31:11 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: September 30, 2004
TIME: 7:00 pm

REF: TC-2004-000089-GRD/NR/2004/09/02/TA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


CDERA EMERGENCY SUPPORT TEAM ENDS TOUR OF DUTY IN GRENADA

Barbados, Sep 30, 2004 (CDERA) –The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response 
Agency (CDERA) has announced the demobilisation of CDERAs Emergency Support 
Team and the Caribbean Disaster Relief Unit (CDRU) in Grenada from October 1, 
2004.

“We are now satisfied that the National Emergency Relief Organisation (NERO) is 
adequately resourced to continue with the emergency phase of the operation,” 
said Coordinator Jeremy Collymore.

Within 24 hours of Hurricane Ivan devastation of the country on September 7, 
2004, a CDERA Emergency Support Team was on the ground to help re-establish the 
Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) which was destroyed and provide staffing 
support to get it operational. Experienced disaster managers from the 
Coordinating Unit in Barbados, the Department for Disaster Management in 
Montserrat, the National Emergency Management Office of Saint Lucia, the 
National Emergency Management Organization of Belize, Office of Disaster 
Preparedness and Emergency Management of Jamaica and a Consultant were provided 
to assist with EOC operations over the last four weeks.

The CDRU which is also being demobilized is a grouping of security forces from 
across the Caribbean. The personnel selected are experts in logistical 
management. They initially secured the air and sea ports and provided 
logistical support for the receipt and transfer of relief supplies. The CDRU 
operations were financed by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the 
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

The demobilisation does not mean the end of CDERAs work in Grenada.

“Our focus will now shift to recovery. CDERA is now collaborating with NERO and 
other partners working in Grenada to address gaps in immediate recovery 
programmes including capacity enhancement,” said Mr Collymore.

CDERA’s continued work in the foreseeable future will include the strengthening 
of public information systems, hazard mitigation, vulnerability assessment, 
safer building, and equipping and training Grenadian First Responders in Search 
and Rescue.

CDERA will also continue to provide weekly progress updates from Grenada to all 
partners and stakeholders.

FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jeremy Collymore, Coordinator
Audrey Mullings, Deputy Coordinator
Terry Ally, Public Education and Information Specialist
Tel: (246) 425-0386
Email: pubinfo@cdera.org

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 30 Sep 2004 00:28:32 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: Sep 29, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bridgetown, Sep 29, 2004 (CDERA) - The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response 
Agency (CDERA) is among ten regional and international agencies which have made 
an urgent appeal for US$27.6 million to support the start of reconstruction 
efforts in Grenada. The call, made through the United Nations Flash Appeal, is 
to support activities in eight areas.

The ten agencies are: CDERA ($100,000), FAO ($4.0 million), French Red Cross 
($594,000 ), OXFAM ($1.1 million), PAHO/WHO ($450,000), UNDP ($19.9 million), 
UNESCO ($335,000), UNFPA ($310,000), UNICEF ($777,600), and the World Food 
Programme ($90,000).
 
The aid is required to support a six-month period of activity in reconstruction 
and recovery in agriculture, public information, economic recovery and 
infrastructure, education, family shelter and non-food items, health, 
reproductive health services, protection, human rights, and the rule of law, 
and water and sanitation services.

Further details on the Flash Appeal are available at http://www.cdera.org/.


FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Jeremy Collymore, Coordinator
Donovan Gentles, Preparedness and Response Manager
Terry Ally, Public Education and Information Specialist
Tel: (246) 425-0386

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 29 Sep 2004 16:57:20 GMT

NERO News is a daily bulletin of news of on the reconstruction of Grenada 
produced by the Government Information Service of Grenada and published in 
association with CDERA.

Details are available online at http://www.neronews.com/

Update - September 28, 2004. In this edition:


- Efforts continue to improve food distribution system
- Curfew eased again
- Reconstruction team appointed
- Port St Georges a hive of activity again
- Air traffic climbing as Grenadians travel
- Insurance claims rolling in
- ILO on reconnaissance mission

• From: "Paradise Bay" <paradisebay AT caribsurf.com>
• Date: Sat, 25 Sep 2004 16:32:36 -0500

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2004 23:24:08 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
REF: NC/GND-IVAN/2004/09/01/TA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Barbados, Sep 23, 2004 (CDERA) – Responding to severe criticism in the regional 
press, Senator Brenda Hood of Grenada, who heads the emergency response effort 
flew to Barbados today to give a news conference and take questions from the 
media.

Her opening remarks were wide ranging and one of the first issues addressed was 
the burning question of people wanting to send personal shipments of food and 
relief supplies to relatives or friends in Grenada. They may now do so and she 
assured that all such shipment were free of Customs duty.

Senator Hood, Chairman of the National Emergency Relief Organisation (NERO), 
also admitted that there had been shortcomings in the food distribution system 
but they were trying their best to correct the situation.

“For the first three days or so after the hurricane, there was lots of 
confusion. NERO’s efforts were severely criticized and NERO acknowledges the 
shortcomings. We are decentralizing the distribution to every parish and so far 
over 60,000 people have received food and tarpaulins,” she told the audience at 
United Nations House in Barbados comprising journalists, members of the 
Grenada-Barbados Association, the diplomatic corps and donor community.

Senator Hood said that they were trying to deal with every complaint they 
received and assured that no Grenadian would starve. An executive coordinating 
team meets every morning to review the system and makes amendments as necessary.

“If it (the system) does not work today, we review it and make sure that it 
works tomorrow,” she said.

Senator Hood said the recovery was slow but sure and Government wants to put 
all Grenadians back to work to earn a living and get the economy going.

She said that several hotels indicated that they would be able to make rooms 
available from November 1 while others required another three to six months. 
One hotel required another year. Hotels have been granted 100 per cent 
concessions for refurbishment and repairs.


She said two international organizations, including FIFA, has given the 
undertaking that they would assist with the reconstruction of the St Georges 
Stadium so that Grenada could host games for World Cup Cricket 2007.

Water and electricity services were returning to the capital, the security 
situation was well under control with all prisoners recaptured. Commerce was 
restarting with the air and sea ports operational, petrol stations were back in 
business without the long queues of vehicles as was the case one week ago. 
Banks, supermarkets, and shops were re-opening.

Two schools had reopened and more schools will throw open their doors each 
week, she reported.

Farmers and fishermen were hardest hit because their livelihoods were destroyed 
but the FAO and Taiwan were working with the Government of Grenada to assess 
the situation and help resuscitate agriculture. The nutmeg industry will take 
seven years to recover because nutmeg trees take that long to grow, mature, and 
produce fruit. The cut flower export industry was also severely impacted but 
that can be returned to production within a shorter space of time.

The task of reconstruction would take some time but Senator Hood painted a 
picture of optimism saying they prefer to be positive rather than dwell on the 
negative.

“When I awaken and look at the mountains, I can see green returning, leaves 
sprouting on trees again, the mountains are beginning to bloom. With regional 
and international help we will rise from the ashes and return to where we once 
were. Our message to the world is that Grenada will rise again.”

Prior to her six-hour trip to Barbados to meet with local and regional news 
media, Senator Hood released the names of 29 victims of Hurricane Ivan. The 
names are available at http://www.cdera.org/. 



Further information contact:

Terry Ally
Public Education and Information Specialist
CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386
Email: pubinfo@cdera.org

• From: Lydsbuckie AT aol.com
• Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2004 18:38:56 EDT

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2004 18:44:14 GMT

NERO News is a daily bulletin of news of on the reconstruction of Grenada 
produced by the Government Information Service of Grenada and published in 
association with CDERA.

Details are available online at http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

Update - September 22, 2004. In this edition:

- Government releases names of 29 victims
- Relief reaches almost 60,000
- Jamaican Prime Minsiter horrified by Ivan's destruction in Grenada
- Social programmes to help people in shelters cope
- Some people in shelters being returned to their homes
- Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell says Grenada is recovering
- Head of relief operation meets the media

Read the full articles at: http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 22 Sep 2004 13:26:00 GMT

NERO News is a daily bulletin of news of on the reconstruction of Grenada 
produced by the Government Information Service of Grenada and published in 
association with CDERA.

Details are available online at http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

Update - September 20, 2004. In this edition:

1. Curfew lifted in five parishes; 
2. Prime Minister Mitchell condemns price-gouging; 
3. The Prime Minister continues his visits to villages and communities; 
4. Stores re-open in the Capital today; 
5. Be fair with fares - bus owners urged.

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 22 Sep 2004 01:34:41 GMT

NERO News is a daily bulletin of news of on the reconstruction of Grenada 
produced by the Government Information Service of Grenada and published in 
association with CDERA.

Details are available online at http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

Update - September 21, 2004. In this edition:

- Grenadian carpenters go back to school to learn how to build hurricane 
resistant roofs
- One school reopened today
- Economic assessment underway
- Tarpaulins in big demand
- Bigger push on relief distribution as Government respond to complaints
- This weekend is National Clean-up Week-end
- Jamaica's Prime Minister to visit
- Virgin help on the way

Read the full articles at: http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2004 23:50:34 -0400 (EDT)

From the Pleas for Help Board:

Author: RWentworth (---.cavtel.net)
Date:   09-21-04 09:49

Below is direct from Fedex as of today.

Operations in Grenada have resumed however deliveries are not being
made. However, there are many stipulationsto shipping the package. The
recipient actually needs to pick that package up at the station. There
are no phones, faxes, e-mails etc so if you ship there it may be best to
get a cell phone number for the recipient as that is the only way we can
contact them. The hours of operation are Monday-Friday 10 am -8 pm.
There is no money back guarantee with this shipment, no commitment
times. Also, you can not ship to them and ask for a credit card to be
billed as all their mean for electonic communications are down.

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2004 20:19:00 GMT

[Also available at http://www.cdera.org/neronews/]

SPEECH TO NATION BY DR. THE HON. KEITH MITCHELL
Monday 20th September, 2004


Fellow Grenadians, one week ago we all woke up to a scene of unimaginable 
desolation and fear.  Fear because none of us knew for sure what had happened, 
who had been killed, who had lost what, so we all feared the worst.

>From Petite Martinique to Point Salines, when the winds subsided, I believe 
>that as most of you dared to crawl from your places of hiding from the wrath 
>of the storm, Ivan, you couldn’t believe your eyes as you looked around.

I am sure our consciousness of God’s presence has become even more real to many 
of us and we are still thanking Him for sparing most of our lives through it 
all.

My family and I are thankful that we escaped the destruction brought when the 
Prime Minister’s official residence was destroyed.

I can say the same thing about our distinguished Governor General who was lucky 
to survive the wrath of IVAN at the official residence of the Government House.

More than one week after, I am glad to see the smiles beginning although small 
so to return to the faces of many in our country.  Even as the sun has come out 
in all of its glory after the storm, the fear and desperation is abating and 
many can now even joke about some of their experiences.  
I guess in the years to come the common question might be “Where were you when 
Hurricane Ivan struck?”

But we must extend our sympathies to those who have lost loved ones.  One 
youngster from Beaulieu lost his mother and baby sister when a wall fell onto 
their house. 

 None of us could enter into the trauma it must have been for this youngster to 
have witnessed firsthand the wrath of nature and then his mother being dragged 
lifeless from the rubble.

Many others like him in one way or another both old and young have been 
severely affected and traumatized by this extremely violent force of nature.  
For those of you who have suffered the loss of a loved one, let us be even more 
sensitive of their needs as they try to rebuild not just physically, but even 
more importantly, emotionally.

Sadly, I must report that some unfortunate elements of our society, exploited 
the moments of shock and despair to behave in a manner that was downright 
disgusting and regrettable.  Here I am referring to those who looted and 
destroyed even that which was spared the wrath of Ivan the Terrible.  
Thankfully, such incidents of looting were quickly brought under control.  
Whereas I have to acknowledge that some members of our society behaved in a 
most disgusting manner, even more sadly, that some members of the security 
services instead of maintaining law and order and securing the society, were 
themselves guilty of such disorderly conduct, and breaking the same law they 
were supposed to uphold.

  Now is not the time to wash our dirty linen in public, but I want you to know 
that I am very aware of some of what went on and in the right time we will deal 
with it accordingly.

In contrast, I want to acknowledge those of you who rose to the occasion above 
and beyond the call of duty.

I know of those of you who placed your own personal and family situation 
second, to the needs of others even more distressed.  I know of those of your 
from the Health Services, from the Security Forces, from the Emergency Relief 
Organisation and other areas of service and even political organizations.

I have been even touched by one young police officer who worked through the 
night of the storm and four days later he was still on the job, having never 
left his post not knowing what has happened to his own family.  It is 
commitment like this that would help us to rebuild this great little nation of 
ours.

It must have been a sacrifice for him and others like himself, to have put 
their own personal needs the needs of their family second to the needs of those 
in most urgent need.

Yes, there will be those who in the midst of the chaos and confusion would 
exploit the situation for their own selfish purposes, but the majority sought 
to improve the condition of others.  To all of you I say special thanks on 
behalf of all Grenadians, Carriacounians and Petit Martiniqueans.

The management of our public utilities must be commended for their work in 
restoring a limited service where possible.  I know that there are many who are 
still without service and I empathize with you in a very serious way.

In time like these, we realize how important clean running water really is.  I 
know the frustration of many of you because you still don’t have some of the 
basic services, but we are doing all that we can under the circumstances and 
with the assistance of some of our Caribbean neighbours and international 
friends, to get water and other basic services flowing to all of grenadians 
that existed before the Hurricane Ivan struck. 

I want to be very candid with you and say that full restoration could take  a 
while in some cases, so please be patient with us and believe me; we do 
understand the urgency of the situation.

GRENLEC’s quick and decisive action restored power to the hospital allowing the 
staff there to be able to reduce the pain and suffering of those being brought 
there for treatment of one kind or another.

Although affected in one way or another, the telecommunications providers were 
able to keep portions of their network working in some cases and have restored 
it to some level of normalcy, enabling you to contact loved ones at home and 
even more importantly overseas. 

Cable and Wireless must be commended for keeping portions of both their 
landline and mobile service operational even during the ferocity of the storm.

I must also commend the new entrant in the mobile market, Digicel, because it 
has been brought to my attention that they have committed to giving some one 
million EC dollars worth of free credit to their customers and another one 
million dollars to the Red Cross.  

I must also commend ATT Wireless for providing some community service like the 
others as quickly as they did.

Fellow Grenadians, even as we sought to gather our wits about us in the early 
hours of this tragedy, our neighbours and other friendly governments were 
mobilizing supplies at great speed  to provide relief to us.

This was true even for some countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and 
St. Vincent and the Grenadines who were themselves affected and suffered loss 
as a result of the passage of Ivan.

Prime Minister Manning and the people of Trinidad and Tobago were first out of 
the block offering tangible assistance.

Our allies in the United States, United Kingdom and Cuba who have stood with us 
in the past, once again came alongside ready to assist, and continues to do so 
in more ways than one, even as I speak to you.

Admittedly when the first loads of relief supplies began to arrive, we did not 
yet seek out the distribution channels.

Although there was a plan, the systems put in place and even other back up 
systems, all failed regrettably in the face of the magnitude of the situation, 
which we never expected.  


This did create some concerns both for us on the ground and also the donors.  I 
want to assure all of you that this matter is being corrected and we now have a 
distribution network in place and we are hoping to continue increasing it’s 
efficiency as the days go by.

Let me make it clear that whatever shortcomings there was in the distribution 
system is something that has caused me great concern and pain.  The system we 
envisaged and planned was intended to be politically transparent and fully 
accountable.

Sadly it didn’t work and we had to go back to the drawing board.  People 
interfered and in some cases the system buckled under the sheer pressure.  I 
want to make it abundantly clear that if ever leadership required was supposed 
to be non-partisan it must be now.  It is my view that any serious politician 
in this time should recognize under the circumstances that we face the best 
politics now is no politics at all.  Of that I am fully aware and to that I am 
absolutely committed.

There is one huge lesson we can all learn from this, and it is that when it 
matters most we can put aside our differences, no matter what they might be and 
operate first and foremost in the interest of Grenada, Carriacou and Petit 
Martinique.  Let us never forget this lesson and continue to build this great 
country of ours.





I think it is important Sister and Brothers, to mention many of our countries 
over and over again that come to our rescue, even before we ask, the Government 
and People of Trinidad and Tobago as I said before, as I said before, the 
Government and People of St. Lucia, the Government and People of France, the 
Government and People of United States, the Government and People of several 
countries internationally all of them too numerous to mention all of them came 
to our aid.


The Ambassadors of those country continue to come in to offer significant 
commitment of aid to our country to all of them I will continue to say special 
thanks to all of you. The question now however is how do we return to normalcy? 
 I can assure that it will not be easy but we must commit ourselves to doing it.

Grenada belongs to all of us and we must do all that we can to rebuild it.  
Like the workers in the Old Testament Book of Nehemiah who rebuilt the walls of 
the destroyed city that had so much rubbish that even Nehemiah despaired at the 
task, but committed himself to seeking his God and motivating his people.

He used a simple formula that I would like us to copy.  Let every man take 
responsibility for the area close to his home.  In Nehemiah’s day they rebuilt 
the walls in an amazing 52 days.

Rebuilding Grenada will be a monumental task, but we can do it together and we 
certainly will.

I myself and members of my Cabinet will be out putting our hands to the task 
ahead as we have started doing I am asking you to join us in rebuilding this 
beautiful country of ours.

Our neighbours are watching us, they have sacrificed much to get assistance to 
us, and we must now demonstrate our own commitment to our development.

As life slowly returns to some normalcy I am calling on all Grenadians to take 
to head, heart and hands the words of our National Anthem. 
 I know as you look around and look at your own situation, there is reason to 
despair and lose hope.  Please don’t give in to that.  See this as an 
opportunity to start over, to rebuild to breathe again.  So when the urge to 
despair or lose hope comes on you, remember our pledge to this beautiful land 
ours ….

Hail Grenada land of ours,
We pledge ourselves to thee,

Heads, hearts and hands in Unity
To reach our destiny.

Ever conscious of God,
Being proud of our Heritage

May we with faith and courage 
Aspire, build and advance

As one people, one family
May God truly bless every single one of you and good afternoon.

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2004 12:44:54 -0400 (EDT)

Sept. 21 2004. The area around Paradise Bay has not received any help from
the official organizations yet. Paradise Bay was lucky still having its
walls and distribution of water and food from the restaurant stocks started
immediately after the storm. The last 180 portions of one pound meat from
our fridges were given out on Sept. 20th. when the small camping generators
which kept the fridges going broke down. James can't get enough fuel for the
regular diesel generators since the 13th of  Sept. More food help is needed
for the next few weeks but we can't finance it all. James will fly this week
to Trinidad to bring in more food in by Van or truck. Financial help is
really hard needed to sustain this help and to survive. Your support is
extremely appreciated by the local people in his area. See how you can help
at http://www.marketplace.nl/post

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2004 12:37:18 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Tue, 21 Sep 2004 08:52:13 -0700 (PDT)
From: aldo dibelardino <spiritforgrenada@yahoo.com>
To: gert@gobeach.com
Subject: Grenada relief effort


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ESSENTIAL MATERIALS BEING COLLECTED FOR HURRICAN IVAN RAVAGED GRENADA.

Norfolk, Virginia – September 21, 2004 – Hurricane Ivan’s impact on Grenada is 
unprecedented, with 90% of structures damaged.  The entire island is 
‘Smashed-up’, says Reginald Charles, a Grenada resident and taxi bus driver.  
With approximately 90,000 residents, Grenada is one of the poorer Caribbean 
nations and will need much outside assistance to recover.  Essential materials, 
with a focus on roofing and simple building materials are being solicited and 
collected at the Salvation Army Corps Community Center in Norfolk, Virginia.  
Commitments to donate materials have been secured by organizations including; 
J.D. Miles & Sons Roofing, Habitat For Humanity, Bradco Supply, and others.  
Commitments to ship the donated materials have been secured by organizations 
including; the Virginia Beach Foundation, and the Government of Grenada.  
Commitments to distribute the materials have been secured by Samaritan’s Purse.

Much of what we often take for granted like the roof over our head, homeowner’s 
insurance and a well stocked store down the street are not existent or in very 
short supply in places like Grenada.   The nature of Ivan’s damage and the 
general circumstances in Grenada make this situation particularly demoralizing. 
 This is an opportunity to lift the spirits of many, not just in Grenada, in 
this difficult Hurricane season.

Material donations are being collected at the Salvation Army Corps Community 
Center, 5516 Raby Road, Norfolk, Virginia 23502, near Virginia Beach Boulevard 
Monday through Thursday between the hours of noon and 3 PM or by appointment.

Essential materials in order of need are as follows;

roofing – galvanized or zinc coated metal sheets, asphalt roll & shingles, felt 
paper, nails

framing – plywood, lumber 2” x 4”,6”,8” at least 6 feet long or longer, nails, 
screws

general - windows, doors, locks, hinges, siding, electrical wire, bagged cement

tools – hammers and hand tools, generators, extension cords, saws, blades, 
drills, bits, etc

transportation – one used Toyota pick-up truck, one small utility trailer



CONTACT INFORMATION:

Aldo DiBelardino, coordinator

757-572-2078 – mobile

757-481-9142 – office voice & fax

SpiritForGrenada@yahoo.com



Grace Ramos

Salvation Army

757-544-3315 – mobile

grace_ramos@uss.salvationarmy.org




---------------------------------
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.doc

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 20 Sep 2004 17:10:14 -0400 (EDT)

Website: "Grenada Update" - http://www.grenadaupdate.cjb.net/

This website has a People Lost & Found List and a lot of other useful
information.  Like locating and information services available in Grenada,
How to Help, other useful website and Ivan stories and images.


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: "Tracy Couch" <tracybeam AT att.net>
• Date: Mon, 20 Sep 2004 16:27:13 -0400

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 20 Sep 2004 13:26:59 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 20 Sep 2004 10:16:21 -0700 (PDT)
From: Arlene Taylor

Hello Gert,

I promised to keep you updated.

Relief is being distributed - some get, some don't, and both the "poor" and the 
"rich" are saying the same thing.  Hopefully this will improve.  Water is 
running again in most parishes, although I don't have any news from the western 
side.  I also heard that electricity is being restored to some parts.Some of my 
relatives were actually able to eat fresh chickens yesterday (I have no idea 
where they got it), but they are low on canned vegetables.

The seems to be an effort to restore order - many civil servants have returned 
to work, and businesses are reopening.  Prices are higher (as can be expected), 
and many companies have had to relocate staff temporarily.  Government 
buildings are being repaired with the assistance of the troops from Barbados.

Many persons from Toronto arrived in Grenada yesterday, one of them told me 
this morning that "the story has yet to be told". He actually went down with 
sixty pounds of seeds and he is going to distribute them to as many people as 
he can so that they can start to grow vegetables.  I hope to make the trip 
myself with some more. He says that we need more corn seeds and some potato 
plants.

We have come a long way but the road to recovery is long.  I urge everyone to 
remain focussed - many are ready to throw in the towel after all the negative 
remarks.  We must continue to do whatever we can to help those who have no one 
to call upon.



I cannot thank you enough for the work you are doing.  I will continue to 
update you periodically.

A special thank you to Michelle  - who brought some food to my relatives in 
Grenada.  And thank you to her parents as well for emailing me after they read 
about this on your website.

Arlene

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sat, 18 Sep 2004 16:55:56 -0400 (EDT)

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/fromthefield/109543946484.htm

RED CROSS SAYS: 'DON'T FORGET THE CARIBBEAN' AS HURRICANE IVAN HITS
AMERICA
17 Sep 2004 16:36:00 GMT

Source: NGO latest


British Red Cross Society - UK
Website: http://www.redcross.org.uk/caribbeanappeal
For further information: Contact Will Slater/Clare Finnigan 020 7201
5016/7

RED CROSS SAYS: 'DON'T FORGET THE CARIBBEAN' AS HURRICANE IVAN HITS
AMERICA

As Hurricane Ivan moves across the United States the Red Cross is urging
people not to forget the devastation caused across the Caribbean, leaving
tens of thousands of people homeless and thousands of buildings destroyed.

Philippe Puyo-Tschanz, Americas desk officer at the British Red Cross
said: "Despite the image of the Caribbean as an exclusive holiday
destination, many of the people who live there are actually very poor and
this hurricane has destroyed their homes and their livelihoods.

"While there is no doubt that America has been badly hit, they have the
infrastructure and resources to cope better and recover more quickly.
However, people in the Caribbean will still be dealing with the
consequences of this disaster for years to come. The Red Cross is running
a massive emergency operation to assist 85,000 people over the next six
months and we need the public's support to help us provide this aid."

With thousands of homes completely destroyed, and water and electricity
supplies disrupted, the Red Cross has been at the centre of aid efforts to
help communities recover from the emergency.

Grenada

A British Red Cross logistics team has been based in Grenada since the
hurricane hit the island. The three person team have been receiving relief
supplies that have been sent to Grenada since the 12 September. The Red
Cross has already distributed 2,000 tarpaulins to help people carry out
repairs to their homes, and 2,080 hygiene kits have been distributed to
ensure the health needs of people whilst repairs are carried out to the
damaged water supply. It is estimated that 60,000 of the islands 90,000
inhabitants have been made homeless.

In some parts of the island there is a scarcity of food and the Grenada
Red Cross have been carrying distributions of food to 300 households a day
since 13 September. Each household receives rice, red beans, oil and sugar
to cover their needs until a large-scale food distribution to 10,000
people can be carried out this weekend.

The logistics team in Grenada is led by Richard North, he said: "When we
first arrived people were in shock and really traumatised. However, there
are many more people out and about, trying to repair roofs or clear the
streets of debris."

He added: "The main problem is the availability of drinking water, people
in some places have taken to drinking from the rivers. However the water
companies say that they will be able to restore most of the water supply
by Sunday."

Jamaica

The Jamaican Red Cross (JRC) is supporting a total of 15,000 people who
have lost their homes and possessions. The JRC is responsible for managing
100 community shelters that have been opened in the south west of the
island and have been distributing blankets, food and hygiene kits to
people taking refuge there. They have also deployed psychological support
teams to provide assistance and counselling to people living in the
shelters.

The British Red Cross sent a logistics expert to the island on the 14
September to help receive incoming aid flights and locate warehouses for
relief supplies.

Cayman Islands

A Red Cross plane of relief items will arrive in the Cayman Islands today.
The plane will be carrying 2,300 blankets, 900 hygiene kits, plastic
sheeting and kitchen sets to meet the immediate needs of people living in
shelters or whose homes have been partially destroyed.

The Cayman Red Cross have already distributed relief supplies that were
pre-positioned on the island as part of their disaster preparedness plans.
Stocks of blankets, plastic sheeting and wheelbarrows to assist in the
clear up were distributed in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. A
British Red Cross delegate has also been sent to the island to help the
Cayman Red Cross assess what aid supplies will be needed in the coming
weeks.

The British Red Cross is running an appeal to help people affected by the
hurricane. People can donate to the Caribbean Hurricane Appeal by calling
0870 169 9191 of by writing to Caribbean Hurricane Appeal, British Red
Cross, FREEPOST, London, SW1X 7BR.


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Fri, 17 Sep 2004 21:20:25 GMT

NERO News ... a newsletter from the Emergency Operations Centre
in Grenada on reconstruction efforts is now available online.

The newsletter will be published a minimum of twice a week.

It is written by the Information Unit of the EOC and reflects 
the progress on reconstruction and developments to date.

It can be accessed at http://www.cdera.org/neronews/

There is also a link on the CDERA home page at http://www.cdera.org

The printed version is available in Grenada where it is
distributed to members of the public.

Rgds/
Terry Ally
CDERA Information Unit

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 21:32:18 -0400 (EDT)

Source: Travel Weekly's Caribbean E-Letter - http://travelweekly.com

Sept. 16, 2004

HURRICANE IVAN ripped through the Caribbean last weekend and is scheduled
to make landfall somewhere along the Gulf Coast today. Tropical storm
Jeanne, nearing hurricane strength, eyed the northeastern Caribbean on
Wednesday. Meanwhile, relief efforts are underway for the Cayman Islands,
Grenada and Jamaica; information is posted on each destination's Web
site: www.caymanislands.ky; www.grenadagrenadines.com; and
www.visitjamaica.com. In addition, the Caribbean Tourism Organization
[www.onecaribbean.org] and the Caribbean Hotel Association
[www.caribbeanhotels.org] have spearheaded relief efforts. Caribbean Star
Airlines launched an initiative with a number of musicians who recorded a
song dedicated to Grenada; proceeds from the sales of the CD and $2 from
each Caribbean Star ticket sold in the next two months will be earmarked
for Grenada relief. Cayman Airways is operating emergency relief flights
on a limited basis into Grand Cayman; Air Jamaica flew 30,000 pounds of
supplies into Kingston, Jamaica, on a special relief flight Sept. 13. The
airport there, as well as in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is open for business.
HERE'S A PARTIAL RECAP throughout the region:

i Grenada . The 32-room Blue Horizons Garden Resort will be closed for
four to six months, and the 66-room Spice Island Beach Resort will close
for a year for repairs. Deposits at both resorts will be refunded when
banking institutions are back on line. Air Jamaica, Air Caribes, LIAT and
Caribbean Star resumed limited flights during daylight hours until runway
lights can be restored. LIAT is running four daily flights from Trinidad,
Barbados and St. Vincent into Grenada. There is no public transport at
the airport, such as taxis or buses. Ambassador Dennis Antoine said that
the island's damage "is incalculable. Grenada has been battered and
shattered, but we will rebound with help." A list of supplies immediately
needed is posted at http://grenadaconsulate.org .

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 03:04:24 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: September 15, 2004
TIME: 9:00 pm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The pace of distribution of relief supplies 
slow due to inadequate transport   


Bridgetown, Sep 15, (CDERA) - The relief effort continues to incrementally 
improve but many challenges still remain – chief among them are the pace of 
relief distribution, the continued lack of effective communication, and 
environmental health issues.

According to a CDERA field assessment today, there are not enough trucks to 
transport relief supplies from the airport and seaport to distribution centres 
around the island and this has prompted an appeal by CDERA for the temporary 
loan of medium size trucks that can navigate the winding mountainous roads.

According to CDERA’s Preparedness and Response Manager on the ground, efforts 
are underway to press the old Pearl’s airstrip to the north of the island into 
service and a search is on to locate a helicopter with sling-load capability to 
airlift supplies. Food supplies are beginning to dwindle and more food is 
required.

The severely limited communication between the Emergency Operations Centre and 
its teams in the field is a major cause of concern. Short range VHF hand sets 
and three repeater stations are required to improve communication in this area. 
Another major concern is the very limited communication to reach the people. 
There is therefore a need for about 7,000 solar-powered or wind-up radios to be 
distributed to homes and villages.

Rain has started to fall and the surface runoff which contains pathogens from 
landbased sources including human waste is contaminating rivers where people 
bath and wash. The Pan American Health Organisation has identified the need for 
5,000 dry pit latrines. The health agency is aiming to send in a sanitary 
engineer to address this issue and the United Nations is trying to source the 
latrines. PAHO has reported that it was contacted by the Permanent Secretary in 
the Ministry of Health in Grenada and advised that the services of 
Environmental Heath personnel were urgently needed.

Battery operated lamps are also required for distribution to homes to avoid the 
continued use of candles and kerosene lamps which pose a significant fire 
hazard in the current environment.

Grenadians are reported to be in good spirits and they have started cleaning up 
their premises and repairing their homes. A practice known as “marooning” has 
started in rural villages. This is where groups of people help to reconstruct 
homes in exchange for food. 

The full situation report can be read at www.cdera.org. Below, please find a 
summary of needs and an update on the contributions of regional and 
international organisations and private sector companies. 

SUMMARY OF IMMEDIATE NEEDS
The needs which were identified above as well as outstanding needs in previous 
Situation Reports are summarized here for ease of reference:

1.      More medium sized trucks, capable of navigating the winding mountainous 
roads are required to meet the shortfall at both the airport and seaport;
2.      Food supply is dwindling, more food is needed;
3.      The services of a helicopter with sling-load capacity is urgently 
required;
4.      Volunteers are needed to assist with the distribution of food and water;
5.      Community kitchens are required;
6.      At least 100 VHF short range radios and three repeater stations are 
required to rectify one layer of communication challenges;
7.      About 7,000 wind-up radios or solar-powered AM/FM radios are required 
for distribution to the general population to rectify another layer of 
communication challenges;
8.      Battery operated lanterns are required;
9.      The National Water and Sewerage Authority requires urgently four 6-inch 
flanged pressure reduction valves with a reduction range of 250 to 100 psi and 
six 5,000-watt portable gas operated lighting generators for night-time plant 
operations and administrative operations;
10.     PAHO has reported that it was contacted by the Permanent Secretary in 
the Ministry of Health in Grenada and advised that the services of 
Environmental Heath personnel were urgently needed;
11.     A urgent assessment of the housing sector and its needs is required;
12.     Urgent initial health supplies identified by PAHO are: 50 medical 
(first aid) kits for the shelters, disinfectants, generators, sterile gauzes, 
oxygen, cold-chain equipment for vaccines, oral rehydration salts, and  
refrigerated insulin;
13.     PAHO has said that it will cost US$470,000 to meet the cost of 
emergency needs.

Regional, International Response
The information below is in addition to the information published in previous 
SITREPs.

1.      WRB Enterprises, Inc has donated US$250,000 to the CDERA Grenada Appeal 
Fund;
2.      The Government of Anguilla is dispatching 1,230 cases of water and a 
quantity of fruit juices, soft drinks, rice, and other dry goods;
3.      The European Commission through the Humanitarian Aid Office (ECHO) has 
earmarked 1.5 million Euros in humanitarian aid to meet emergency needs in 
shelter, food, drinking water, hygiene kits and tarpaulins for house roofing;
4.      UNICEF has provided health kits for up to 5,000 people over a 
three-month period and 5,000 does of oral rehydration packets to prevent 
dehydration from diarrhea – a particular threat to children under five. The 
shipment also included 200 collapsible water containers, trauma kits, and other 
supplies. The supplies have already landed in Grenada;
5.      UNICEF has also provided a doctor and psychosocial expert to help the 
Government as it struggles with limited resources;
6.      The Government of Canada has approved a contribution of CAD 500,000 in 
relief aid to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent 
Societies for assistance to the areas affected by the hurricane, in addition to 
its initial contribution of CAD 50,000 to support the mobilization of 
assessment teams. Emergency relief supplies are also being sent to Grenada;
7.      The European Commission has earmarked EUR 1.5 million (USD 1.8 
8.      million) for humanitarian aid to Grenada, to assist the most vulnerable 
9.      people with emergency;
10.     UN OCHA has released emergency cash grants of USD 100,000 (an OCHA cash 
grant and a Danish cash grant of USD 50,000 each);
11.     The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) today launched a 
revised appeal increased to six million Swiss francs to support the current and 
ongoing relief operations being carried out by the Red Cross Societies in 
Grenada, Jamaica, Cuba and the Cayman Islands branch of the British Red Cross. 
The appeal funds will be used to provide shelter materials, food, blankets, 
kitchen sets, hygiene articles and jerry cans to support 85,000 people over the 
next six months;
12.     The IFRC which flew in a plane load of relief goods on September 12, 
2004 has sent in a second cargo plane on 14 September, bringing 3,500 plastic 
tarpaulins in order to work towards meeting urgent shelter needs. All the 
relief items received have been distributed;
13.     The Canadian Red Cross is flying relief items into Grenada on a cargo 
flight scheduled for Wednesday, 15 September, carrying primarily watsan 
material and supplies (generators, water bladders, jerry cans, etc.). There has 
also been a contribution of relief goods from the Martinique Red Cross, and the 
Trinidad Red Cross has sent (by air) food supplies in the form of 9,600 tins of 
corned beef, 10,000 bags of rice (2 kg each), and 10,000 bags of red beans. The 
Red Cross team on the island is considering prioritizing the parishes of St. 
Georges, St. David and St. Andrew as these are highly populated areas of the 
country that were particularly badly hit by the hurricane.
14.     Regional and international organisations working in support of the 
Grenada Government and people include CDERA, UNDP, UNICEF, FAO, UNDAC, CIDA, 
USAID/OFDA, PAHO, IFRC, Trinidad Red Cross, Canadian Red Cross, Martinique Red 
Cross, PADRU, OCHA, SUMA Team (computerized relief tracking system);


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Jeremy Collymore
Coordinator, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386

Terry Ally
Public Education & Information Specialist, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 21:22:59 GMT

ISSUED BY: UNICEF
DATE: September 14, 2004


The following release from UNICEF is distributed as a courtesy by the Caribbean 
Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)


UNICEF relief supplies have arrived in this country struck by a hurricane that 
wrought devastation upon thousands of families, hammering homes, schools, 
government institutions, disrupting electricity, water and sanitation services 
and telecommunications.
 
Health kits for up to 5,000 people over a 3-month period and 5,000 doses of 
oral rehydration packets to prevent dehydration from diarrhoea - a particular 
threat to children under five - were flown in this morning from the 
organization's regional center in Panama and were rushed through snarled 
traffic to the main hospital, where distribution began immediately.
 
The General Hospital is reporting a number of cases of children with diarrhoea. 
 Children are also suffering from a range of maladies, some normal to 
childhood, and other complaints related to the psychological impact of losing 
their homes, their clothes and their playthings.  
 
Most of the island's homes and schools have been destroyed or undergone 
significant structural damage.  Hurricane Ivan, the worst in the Caribbean in 
at least a decade, struck Tuesday, the day after the school year began.   An 
estimated 4,000 children are now living in shelters.
 
“The scariest part of this disaster for the children is that their regular 
routine has been completely thrown off,” said UNICEF Representative in Barbados 
Jean Gough, who is in Grenada and is meeting with Prime Minister Keith Mitchell 
today.   “We are very concerned to get these children back to school as soon as 
possible where we can provide a protective environment to them.”
 
Other UNICEF staff, including a doctor and a psychosocial expert, arrived today 
to assist the government as it struggles to manage with limited resources.  
Many government workers have not yet been able to return to work.  Water and 
sanitation engineers are also being flown in as part of the relief effort.  
 
The shipment also included 200 collapsible water containers, trauma kits and 
other supplies.
 
“It is vitally important that the water and sanitation services begin 
functioning normally again, as disease spreads easily to children, and in 
Grenada right now, diet is poor, so the children are really at risk,” said 
Gough.
 
Gough called on international donors to assist Grenada get its life back on 
track.  “It will be a long process of recovery,” she said.  “And the danger is 
that Grenada -- and its children --  could be forgotten.“

UNICEF is also participating in the first assessments of damage caused by Ivan 
in Jamaica and emergency supplies are being flown in by UNICEF.  With 
expectations that the hurricane will hit Cuba tomorrow, the agency's Havana 
office is on standby to provide assistance if requested by the government.  
 *   *   *

 
For further information, please contact:  

In Grenada: Kathryn Donovan 246 230 5056
In Jamaica: Monica Dias 1 876 789 6117
In Panama: Robert Cohen, 507-676-3216
In New York: Gordon Weiss 212-326-7426




For nearly 60 years UNICEF has been the world’s leader for children.  We work 
on the ground in 158 countries to help children survive and thrive from early 
childhood through adolescence.  The world’s largest provider of vaccines for 
poor countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, quality basic 
education for all girls and boys, and the protection of children from violence, 
exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary 
contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

Learn more at www.unicef.org

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 17:54:21 -0400 (EDT)

People who have been making enquires about their relatives can now telephone
the EOC in Grenada directly at (473) 405-1822 or 1823.

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 18:49:32 GMT

ISSUED BY: Pan American Health Organisation Barbados
DATE: September 15, 2004


The following release is disributed by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency 
Response Agency (CDERA) as a courtesy



NEWS RELEASE

More than 40 Barbadians and Grenadian Health Workers 
On PAHO’s Waiting List of Volunteers to Grenada


The Caribbean Program Coordinator (CPC), of the Pan American Health 
Organization (PAHO/WHO), Mrs. Veta Brown, held discussions today (Tuesday) with 
more than 30 volunteers, comprising a range of health and health-related 
service personnel, awaiting deployment to help address crises conditions in 
Grenada in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan. 

The meeting was called by PAHO and was held at the Ministry of Health in 
Barbados to brief the volunteers on conditions in Grenada and the current plan 
of action in response to the situation there. The volunteers reaffirmed their 
commitment to the Emergency effort and willingness to be assigned immediately. 
They comprise, primarily, nurses, doctors; environmentalists, health planners, 
artisans and other support service personnel. Some of the volunteers are 
Grenadian nationals but the majority are Barbadians, and are employed to the 
Ministry of Health. The volunteer assistance is supported by the Government of 
Barbados. The actual list comprises more than 40 names 

The CPC described the extent of the infrastructural damage in Grenada and the 
national mechanism that are being put in place to address the situation. She 
advised that the personal relief effort was being done in collaboration with 
the Ministry of Health in the Grenada. The scheduling of staff to the country 
will therefore be done in accordance with their identified needs.  She 
explained that an initial assessment of needs and conditions is underway after 
which a definitive plan will be drawn up to more effectively coordinate the 
provision of services and resources into the country, including their 
deployment. 

She said that security and communication were the major priority so far 
identified but that this was being addressed and the situation is expected to 
stabilize soon. She noted that there was considerable goodwill towards Grenada 
and significant donations of funds, goods and services was forthcoming from 
individuals, countries, and donor agencies and organizations. However an 
optimal delivery system was still being developed and an appeal has been made 
to the general population to be cooperative to facilitate deliveries. In an 
effort to assist the government with maintaining a transparent process, the  
Humanitarian Supply Management System (SUMA), a tool developed by PAHO, is 
currently being used to assist in verifying donations and  distribution. Mrs. 
Brown explained that the SUMA system aims to build and strengthen the capacity 
in countries like Grenada, to deal effectively with information on incoming 
relief supplies. 

PAHO/WHO has provided the equipment and the personnel to install the system 
involving three sites. This included 4 laptop computers, 3 printers and 2 
generators. 

Shortly after meeting with the volunteers, PAHO was contacted by the Permanent 
Secretary in the Ministry of Health in Grenada and advised that the services of 
Environmental Heath personnel were urgently needed.

-end-

Contact
Clare Forrester
Caribbean Program Coordinating (CPC) Office
Regional Office of the World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO)
September 14, 2004

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 18:28:59 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Tourism Organisation
DATE: September 14, 2004

The following release is distributed as a courtesy by the Caribbean Disaster 
Emergency Response Agency.


STATEMENT BY THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION (CTO) ON THE IMPACT OF 
HURRICANE IVAN ON CTO MEMBER STATES

 

Sept. 14, 2004 12:00 p.m.- Here is the latest information on CTO member 
countries impacted by Hurricanes as of noon today.

 
CAYMAN ISLANDS
 
The Dept. of Tourism offices on Grand Cayman were severely damaged and remain 
closed. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are in good shape and have mobilized to 
help relief efforts for Grand Cayman. Road networks are intact, but some are 
still obstructed

Cayman Airways, the national airline, has been coordinating emergency flights 
into Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac from Houston, Tampa and Miami. Cayman Airways 
flights will take US citizens back to the United States on these emergency 
flights. 

Owen Roberts International Airport is open for restricted flights only and 
Cayman Airways has cancelled all of its commercial flights through the end of 
the day Wednesday due to the closure of the Owen Roberts International Airport. 
The airline says it is evaluating the situation and will resume operation as 
soon as it is safe and possible to do so.

Cayman Bracs Gerrard Smith International Airport is open for restricted flights 
only. 

Cell phones are working, although the volume of calls makes if difficult to 
make contact as circuits are almost permanently busy. Land phone lines remain 
down, but the telephone company, Cable and Wireless is reporting that its core 
network systems for fixed lines for local and international calling and its 
mobile service are up and running.

The Department of Tourism has set up Cayman Islands Hurricane Relief Fund.  The 
account number is 621506296065 with Chase Manhattan Banks.  The wiring 
instructions follow:  JPMorgan Chase Bank, 60 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 
10165,. ABA # 021000021. Swift Code for international use only: CHASUS33

GRENADA

The airport is functional with air traffic control, Customs and Immigration in 
place. Air Jamaica, Air Caribes, LIAT and Caribbean Star have restarted limited 
service. LIAT CEO Gary Cullen has told CTO that the regional carrier is putting 
on four scheduled daily flights from Port of Spain, Barbados and St. Vincent 
into Grenada.  

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA) has advised that until 
the runway lights can be restored, air transport is limited to daylight 
operation. Also, there is still no public ground transport, such as taxis or 
buses, at the airport.

 
JAMAICA

The Port Authority of Jamaica has advised CTO that the port sustained minimal 
damage and both the Montego Bay and Ocho Rios cruise ports will reopen today. 

The first cruise ship since the passage of Hurricane Ivan, a vessel from 
Princess Cruises, is expected to dock at Montego Bay tomorrow. The Port 
Authority is expecting word later today on whether or not Royal Caribbean will 
call in Ocho Rios tomorrow.   The cruise schedule will be back to normal next 
week.

Couples Resorts has informed CTO that its Resort in Negril will not be 
accepting any new arrivals until Sunday 19th September at the earliest.

Couples Resorts has indicated that its Hurricane Policy is as follows 

1. On property guests: If guests feel the need to leave, we will either refund 
them for their unused portion of their stay OR issue a credit for travel up to 
one year for the number of nights interrupted. 

2. Arriving Guests: In the event that guests are unable to arrive as scheduled, 
we will offer them the following options: 

A. They can arrive after the storm passes. Either for the same number of 
nights, in which case, we will make every effort to confirm the dates and 
categories, but guarantee no (hotel) rate increase - OR - stay for fewer 
nights, in which case they will be refunded for the interrupted nights. 

B. We will issue a full credit for travel up to one year. We will guarantee the 
rate paid, regardless of the season they travel except for the following 
blackouts dates: 

All Resorts: December 25, 2004 - January 2, 2005, February 10 - 22, 2005, June 
30 - July 11, 2005 
Plus: Couples Ocho Rios January 15 - 23, 2005 
Couples Negril/ Couples Swept Away (Negril) Oct 7-10, 2004 and Oct 6 - 9, 2005 

C. Full refunds will be allowed if, at resort discretion, a decision is made to 
close the resorts to any new arrivals. The refund will apply during the closed 
period.

• From: "Tracy Couch" <tracybeam AT att.net>
• Date: Tue, 14 Sep 2004 16:26:48 -0400

• From: "Tracy Couch" <tracybeam AT att.net>
• Date: Tue, 14 Sep 2004 13:08:54 -0400

• From: RDMASIVE AT aol.com
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 23:35:55 EDT

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Tue, 14 Sep 2004 01:41:43 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Update on recovery process and humanitarian effort in Grenada

Barbados, Sep 13, 2004 (CDERA)

SITUATION UPDATE – 9:30 pm

This report of the progress on the ground is based on a CDERA field assessment 
which was conducted September 12, 2004.

While the situation is improving incrementally, a considerable effort is still 
required especially in the area of food distribution and internal and external 
public information.

Information dissemination remains a challenge but efforts are underway to 
address it.

An UNDAC team arrived tonight and successfully established a wireless Internet 
connection. Tests were successful. This now significantly boost the speed of 
data transfer between the EOC and CDERA.


Deaths and Births
Number of deaths between September 7 – 11, 2004: 
37 of which 28 were attributable to Hurricane Ivan

Number of births between September 7-11, 2004:
20

Number of injuries between September 7-11, 2004:
        353 people seen at the Grenada General Hospital

Security
Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell declared a limited state of emergency Sunday 
September 12, 2004. The state of emergency was to be enforced for 24 hours in 
order to transport relief supplies, without hindrance, to the distribution 
centres. Under the state of emergency, no member of the public was permitted to 
be on the street in town areas. The few gas stations operating were ordered 
closed except for one which supply petrol to the emergency relief management 
operation.

The police have been appealing to prisoners to turn themselves in. The “Grenada 
17” (the people found guilty of overthrowing the Maurice Bishop Government in 
1983) and other prisoners informed the police of their whereabouts. An active 
hunt is on for the other prisoners. The police are particularly keen to 
recapture 22 hardened criminals and put them back behind bars.

Food distribution

Food distribution began on September 8, 2004 – the first day after the 
hurricane – to shelters. Meat which was in cold storage was also widely 
distributed throughout the day and night.

The first shipment of food from the warehouses went out to all seven parishes 
on the weekend (St Georges, St John, St Marks, St Patrick, St David, St Andrew 
and Carriacou and Petite Martinique). Food went out to St Georges, St Patrick 
and Carriacou and Petite Martinique on Saturday while St John, St Marks, and St 
Andrew were serviced on Sunday.

The food distribution plan is to send the food to a central location and then 
have it distributed to districts within the parish however the movement to the 
people has been slow.

The food as it is received at the airport is transported under armed guard to 
the Grenada SSU Headquarters, just a stone’s throw away from the airport and 
operated by the military.

>From there, under the direction of the EOC’s Logistical Manager, the food is 
>transported to community distribution centres.

Food received at the St Georges Harbour is transported directly to the 
community distribution centres under the direction of the EOCs Logistical 
Manager.

Water distribution
Limited water distribution started September 8, 2004 – the day after the 
hurricane to the shelters. 

Water bladders (each with a capacity of 10,000 gallons) were received within 
the first 72 hours after the September 7, 2004 hurricane when deployment 
started.

OXFAM is collaborating with the public health officials and liaised with the 
water engineer from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to set 
up community water tanks. OXFAM has also been engaged in identifying critical 
shortage to inform the placement of water tanks.

Piped water is expected to be restored to most of the island by Sunday 
September 19, 2004 as repair crews were in the field. The status as of 
September 11, 2004 follows:

St Georges
30 per cent of the supply restored. Two water trucks in operation. Expected to 
increase to 90 per cent by Tuesday

St Johns
Seven per cent of supply restored. Shared water truck with St Marks in 
operation. Expected to increase to 32 per cent by Monday and 100 per cent by 
Wednesday

St Marks
        Twenty five per cent of the supply restored. Shared water truck with St 
Johns in operation. Estimated improvements not available.

St Andrew
50 per cent of the supply restored. Full capacity expected by Wednesday

St Patrick
75 per cent of the supply restored. Full capacity expected by Sunday

St Davids
About 2 per cent of the supply restored, 50 per cent capacity expected by 
Wednesday

Until full supply is restored, the shortfall is being supplemented by bladders, 
tanks, water trucks, and bottled water.

Special needs of institutional populations and other vulnerable groups are 
being met using supplies donated by the Governments of Saint Lucia and Trinidad 
and Tobago.

Solid Waste Management
The local solid waste management company started collection of garbage on 
Monday September 13, 2004. OXFAM reports that the present landfill does not 
have the capacity to take the quantity of garbage left behind by Hurricane Ivan 
and they are therefore will be flying in a solid waste management expert to 
advise and make a recommendation on new facilities.

Air transport

The airport is functional with air traffic control, Customs and Immigration in 
place. Air Jamaica, Air Caribes, LIAT and Caribbean Star have restarted limited 
service. Until the runway lights can be restored, air transport is limited to 
daylight operation.

The fire tenders are functional at the airport.

An assessment of the state of the airport and recommendations for start up of 
operation were made by an Air Traffic Control specialist of the Rapid Needs 
Assessment Team (RNAT) who was provided by Canadian International Development 
Agency.

At the airport there is no public ground transport, such as taxis or buses, as 
yet.

Health
There are 11 medical districts in Grenada in which there are six health care 
centres and 33 smaller medical stations of which about half were damaged. The 
people in the community are being treated at other facilities.

The general hospital and the Mount Gay Mental Hospital sustained minimal damage 
but both remain functional. They are supplied with standby power and water but 
food supply is irregular.

The Richmond Home for the Elderly sustained major damage to the roof.  The 
patients were relocated downstairs. One hundred single beds were pledged by the 
Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines. There are 93 patients. There is 
adequate food and water.

Students from the St Georges University have been assisting in the care of the 
elderly at the Richmond Home for the Elderly.

The hospital in Grenville sustained damage to 80 per cent of its roof. However, 
before the hurricane struck many people were treated and discharged and only 19 
of the 40 rooms were occupied. Eight of the patients were moved to the Sauteurs 
Health Centre.

Princess Royal Hospital in Carriacou sustained little or no damage and is 
operational.


Supply of Medicine
The central medicine store for the Ministry of Health sustained major damage to 
the roof. An assessment is underway to determine which drugs are in good 
condition and the shortfall.

The Government of Saint Lucia provided medicines such as antibiotics, diabetic 
drugs, hypertension drugs and oral hydration salts, while the Pan American 
Health Oganisation provided vaccines. 

Based on present use, the supply will run out in about a week unless more is 
received.

The Chief Medical Officer of Trinidad and Tobago was in Grenada Sunday and a 
request was made by the Ministry of Health in Grenada for the supply of 100 
bottles of oxygen. Trinidad and Tobago is expected to provide that amount. 
Carib Supply of Barbados will provide another dozen bottles.


Manpower in the health care sector
There is a shortage of manpower in the health sector. Nurses have been called 
out to work from Monday September 13, 2004. Transportation will be provided to 
and from work.

Three Grenadian nurses working in the British Virgin Islands returned home 
while three French doctors are working at medical centres in Sauteurs and 
Gouyave. This additional personnel was coordinated by the Pan American Health 
Organisation.


Special Medical Needs

AIDS sufferers are known to the health care providers and continue to receive 
anti-retroviral drugs.

A census is being conducted of all shelters which is also providing information 
for other special health needs. These people continue to receive medication.

For those who are not in shelters, they are covered by the District Health 
Officers who know what the special health needs are.

Environmental Health
Environmental Health Officers have started visiting shelters to ensure water 
quality, food security and vector control. The EOC radio station and Grenada 
Broadcasting Network are broadcasting information on how to purify water.

Shelter
The number of people in shelters is not known. Previous estimates by the Red 
Cross put the number between 5,000 and 8,000. The number of shelters is now 
estimated to be 98 and the health department of the Emergency Operations 
Centre. Visits are underway to each of the centres to record the names of the 
people sheltering. Many official shelters loss their roofs and people moved 
into studier buildings – such as an unfinished shopping plaza – and private 
homes.


Emergency Operations Centre
During the hurricane the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) at Mt Wheldale was 
destroyed and after the hurricane had passed the staff relocated to Fort 
Frederick. The EOC is operational with cell phones, HF radio, computers, and a 
FM radio station. As of 8 pm tonight a United Nations Disaster Assessment and 
Coordination (UNDAC) team landed and quickly established e-mail facilities. 
There is no facsimile capability. Teams based at the EOC are multi-disciplined 
from several local, regional, and international agencies which are providing 
advice to and assisting the Director of Emergency Services in emergency relief 
operations. CDERA has provided a coordinator for regional response, a 
logistical manager, and an operations manager. Other agencies working with the 
EOC are the Pan American Health Organisation, the International Federation of 
the Red Cross, CAREC, USAID Office for Foreign Disaster Assistance, SUMA Team 
(Supply Management computerized system), UNIFEM, UNICEF, OXFAM, a!
 nd joining today was a team from UN OCHA.

Communication
All major roads are now cleared of fallen trees and other debris and vehicular 
traffic can move from one part of the island to another. The remaining 
hindrance is the fallen utility poles and lines. Local utility crews assisted 
by CARILEC member states have started to remove fallen lines and repair the 
damage.

Other communication challenges include lack of communications within the 
country, between the EOC and the field, and between Grenada and the rest of the 
world. The absence of a national broadcasting station and the absence of 
portable radios make communicating with the population difficult. The Grenada 
Broadcasting Network has restarted broadcasting (just a few hours per day) and 
the EOC has established a portable radio station however both are on the FM 
frequency and broadcast does not cover the entire island or the two 
dependencies of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. CBC 900 AM in Barbados has 
expanded its service to include Grenada and has set up a toll free number 
(1-800-744-8222) for residents of Grenada to contact the studio. Radio Tambrin 
92.1 FM in Tobago also has a reach into Grenada. There is a pressing need for 
portable radios and batteries.

On Monday Sep 13, 2004 the Director of Emergency Operations, Superintendent 
Sylvan McIntyre, and CDERA’s Deputy Coordinator Audrey Mullings were the guests 
on a call-in radio programme on CBC 900 AM out of Barbados through a link up 
provided by Cable and Wireless. Mr McIntyre explained the distribution plan for 
food and water, the progress so far, and he addressed concerns about security. 
The programme was opened to calls from Grenada through a toll free number 
provided by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation which Mr McIntyre fielded.

The EOC as of 8pm has email provided by an UNDAC team which arrived tonight. 
There is still no fax capability because there are no land lines functional at 
Fort Frederick due to the damage by Hurricane Ivan. This had severely affected 
the communication flow of vital reports between the EOC and CDERA but with 
email available, communication is expected to significantly improve. The most 
effective communication is presently by satellite telephone.


Immediate Needs
1.      Communication systems between the EOC and the field need to be 
established;
2.      Portable radios for citizens to receive information from the Government;
3.      The EOC requires E-mail, Internet, and fax capability;
4.      The National Water and Sewerage Authority requires urgently four 6-inch 
flanged pressure reduction valves with a reduction range of 250 to 100 psi and 
six 5,000-watt portable gas operated lighting generators for night-time plant 
operations and administrative operations


Regional, International Response
The information below is in addition to the information published in previous 
SITREPs.

1.      CIDA has provided CAN$50,000 to the International Federation of the Red 
Cross (IFRC) to kick start their assessment and relief efforts;

2.      CIDA has provided two RNAT experts (one water and one airport expert) - 
 both have completed their assessments (the airport expert's report has been 
submitted and the water expert's report should be submitted by tomorrow, 
Tuesday);

3.      CIDA is providing approximately CAN$75,000 to the IFRC and the Canadian 
Red Cross to pay for supplies, ground transport and associated costs.  Items 
requested include prefab warehouses, generators, water bladders and 
distribution systems, plastic sheeting, tools, water pumps. Final make up of 
consignment may vary in the next two days depending on potential need to 
prioritise some of the items towards needs that may be identified in Jamaica or 
possibly Cuba. Air transport is being provided free of charge by Zoom Airlines 
who have a charter flight scheduled to depart Toronto on Wednesday arriving in 
Grenada same day. The relief items will be accompanied by a Canadian Red Cross 
delegate to oversee hand over of consignment to the IFRC;

4.      CIDA-IHA (International Humanitarian Assistance) is providing 
CAN$500,000 to the IFRC for both Grenada and Jamaica;

5.      CIDA Bridgetown Post, is preparing to respond with CAN$25,000 to 
Grenadian NGO's in support of emergency response for communities impacted by 
Hurricane Ivan;

6.      An UNDAC communications team has arrived;

7.      Trinidad and Tobago which is the sub-regional focal point for Grenada 
has established a Joint Support Group – Grenada to support the island;

8.      Trinidad and Tobago has deployed a unit from its Defence Force for one 
month in the first instance to carry out damage assessments, assist Grenadian 
law enforcement agencies in restoring and maintaining law and order, assist in 
the restoration of essential services, assist with the coordination, 
management, collection and distribution of relief supplies, assist with the 
dissemination of information throughout Grenada, repatriate citizens of 
Trinidad and Tobago should they require, and enhance communication between 
citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and their relatives and other national 
interests in Grenada; 

9.      Trinidad and Tobago has also provided airlift and sea transport to 
Grenada for a number of officials of both Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, 
essential services, and the media;

10.     Trinidad and Tobago has also transported 1,276 tonnes of food and water 
and 638 tonnes of construction material to Grenada. The twin island republic 
has also deployed the specialized skills (cooks, medics, electricians, 
carpenters/shipwrights, masons, plumbers, welders, drivers, communications, and 
military engineers) as part of the Joint Support Group;

11.     Trinidad and Tobago has also repatriated all Trinidad and Tobago 
students from St George’s University who sought such assistance. A complete 
statement detailing Trinidad and Tobago’s contributions is published in CDERA’s 
website at www.cdera.org. 


The CDERA CU continues to issue SITREPs on Hurricane Ivan which may be viewed 
at www.cdera.org. The UN/OCHA Reliefweb service is also posting SITREPS at 
www.reliefweb.int 

Contact Details: The CDERA CU 24hr contact number is 246 425 0386


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jeremy Collymore
Coordinator
Tel: (246) 425-0386

Donovan Gentles
Preparedness and Response Manager
Tel: (246) 425-0386

Terry Ally
Public Education and Information Specialist
Tel: (246) 425-0386
E-mail: pubinfo@cdera.org

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 16:51:56 -0400 (EDT)

We are working on sending relief from here in Dallas. The link that I
have sent you will be up and running by the end of Monday with the
information of our efforts.
Bless Grenada.
Wendy


www.HelpGrenada.com



*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: "Joan Sam" <jsam AT voa-gny.org>
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 15:31:30 -0400

• From: "THIRARD, Olivier" <O.Thirard AT AirLiquide.com>
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 17:04:34 +0200

Would you mind posting this mail regarding

On another positive note, I wanted to inform you that more relief efforts are on their way, this time from Martinique who responded to the calls from grenada for international aid.  This is a small article in french, which says in substance that a first rescue team has left Martinique last saturday with 2 tons of freight. Are included 11 rescuers, nurses and doctors.  This team is a prelude to a merchandise ship that should reach grenada by the end of the week with 400 tons of humanitarian aid that the people of martinique and the french government put together to the attention of grenada and its people.  

"Départ de la Martinique pour Grenade d'un détachement humanitaire

FORT-DE-FRANCE, 11 sept 2004 (AFP) - 20h26 heure de Paris -
Un détachement de la sécurité civile et du Samu a quitté samedi avec deux tonnes de fret la base aérienne du Lamentin, en Martinique, à destination de l'île de la Grenade durement touchée par le cyclone Ivan.Ce détachement est composé de 11 sapeurs-pompiers, d'une infirmière-anesthésiste et de deux médecins urgentistes du Samu ainsi que de trois membres de l'ambassade de France à Sainte-Lucie. Ils devraient rester sur place entre huit et dix jours.Le cyclone Ivan, le pire qu'ait connu la région depuis des décennies, a tué au moins 29 personnes depuis qu'il a commencé, mercredi, à dévaster les Caraïbes. Il a endommagé ou détruit 90 % des habitations à la Grenade et 60.000 des 95.000 habitants de l'île sont sans abri. Douze personnes ont été tuées sur l'île.Selon Bachir Bakhti, le directeur de cabinet du préfet de Région, "ce détachement a d'abord pour mission d'apporter une aide d'urgence aux personnels hospitaliers de l'île après la destruction des trois hôpitaux locaux". Il s'agira également de "s'assurer dès mercredi de la distribution de l'aide alimentaire qui sera apportée par la Martinique".Le navire "Francis Garnier" doit acheminer mercredi au départ de Fort-de-France quelques 400 tonnes d'aide humanitaire recueillies auprès des Martiniquais par l'association "Urgence Caraïbe" avec le concours des collectivités locales."


Olivier Thirard



-----Message d'origine-----
De : Gert van Dijken [mailto:gert@vandijken.com]
Envoyé : jeudi 9 septembre 2004 17:18
À : O.Thirard@AirLiquide.com
Objet : Re: MOVIE OH GRENADA FROM TRINIDADEXPRESS.com (autoreply)



*** Thank you for your update.
***
*** It should now be visible on the appropriate webpage listed under the
*** 'Weather Discussions and Local Reports' section of the stormCARIB-
*** homepage: http://stormcarib.com/
***
*** If you can't find your report on the webpage (even after <SHIFT>-RELOAD/
*** REFRESHing the page), an error could have occured.  Do not resent the
*** message, but drop me an e-mail.
***
*** Thanks again,
***
*** Hang in there!
***
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
*** The Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 17:57:01 -0400 (EDT)

   From the spiceisle.com board:

   Date: September 12, 2004 at 09:53:19
   From: hijet5
   Subject: Re: oprah show
   spoke to the oprah show today and I was told to fax a letter in to
   Lisa Holliday at 312-633-1976 fax so that their can air about the help
   that Grenada Needs please fax letters to the show also because it will
   be better that their get 100 letters than just my letter only please
   be professionals and do and ask for what the country needs food,
   clothes, lights go from the list if any one need help with the letters
   call me 770-498-5586 or e-mail me at hijet5@bellsouth.net


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: mastersosa AT juno.com
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 15:02:40 -0500