Eight trucks have been presented to the Government of the British Virgin Islands to assist in the clearing of debris left in the wake of Hurricane Irma.
The donation of the trucks was coordinated through the Department of International Development (DFID).
His Excellency, Governor Augustus Jaspert handed over the keys to Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. D. Orlando Smith, OBE in a brief ceremony on Sunday. The vehicles have been assigned to the Department of Waste Management but the two bucket trucks will be on loan to the BVI Electricity Corporation to help facilitate power restoration.
Governor Jaspert described the donation as a manifestation of the partnership between the UK and BVI governments. His Excellency also acknowledged the dedication of the public servants who have been involved in the debris management process and the utility workers working to restore power, noting that the new equipment will serve to further enhance their respective operations.
In accepting the donation, Premier Smith expressed thanks to the UK government and underscored the importance of additional equipment to support the recovery process. The Premier also commended all workers who have been involved in clean-up and restoration efforts and he encouraged continued community support for all recovery initiatives.
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