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by pltm
(PLTM) - There have been heavy criticisms over the manner in which relief supplies have been distributed following Hurricane Irma. However, Hon. Ronnie Skelton, Minister of Health and Social Development has called on residents to understand that the vulnerable persons in society will take precedence.
He pleaded with persons who can help themselves to do so.
"It is very important that those who can help ourselves do so, so that the government can concentrate on helping those who cannot help themselves, and I know the donor agencies would want us to do this. So if you see us helping your neighbors and don’t help you, don’t get angry with us," Minister Skelton said.
He added the government has offered relief in other forms, including waiving tax on certain imported items such as building materials for businesses and homeowners.
Against this backdrop, Minister Skelton opined that they need to get persons back into their homes, noting that there is an urgent need for temporary housing.
"We have the shelters and I know people cannot live in shelters long term, they are going to need to get some level of temporary housing while they rebuild their permanent homes," he said.
There are currently some 336 persons occupying shelters.
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