Suggestions for NEMA

THE EDITOR: I would like to express my appreciation and commendations to the NEMA in the mobilisation of the available resources (people, plant and machinery), to have the nation of Trinidad and Tobago fully prepared for Hurricane Ivan. Special prayers and blessing go out to our fellow brothers/sisters in Tobago who suffered and are still suffering under the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan. Commendation for NEMA officers assigned to Tobago for doing all that is humanly possible in preparation for the hurricane. I would like to offer my suggestions for the Preparedness Programme:-

These are as follows:-
(1) ‘Hurricane Shelter’ signs be permanently placed at schools and where ever is designated as hurricane shelters throughout the year.
(2) A hand book with all relevant contact numbers of community management teams be lodged at each police station and updated quarterly.
(3) Aplication to the Minister of National Security for once Hurricane Warning is established.
(4) Individuals who do not belong to the essential services found on the roadways will be arrested.
(5) Suspension of liquor sales in bars and rum shops.

I thank God for protecting our people as a nation and commend all those who came forward to serve in the essential services — police, fire, regiment, NEMA and all the various volunteers who came out in their respective communities and others who assisted these authorities. Once again God has blessed our nation let us continue to give thanks and praise.

COLIN KELLY BAGGAN
San Juan