CDEMA Director: Good communication remains a top priority

The 2013 Christmas rains in the Eastern Caribbean tested national readiness and co-ordination capacities, as well as the regional response support mechanism in some respect.

This was noted during the 5th Meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) by Executive Director of Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Ronald Jackson.

However, he said that the events highlighted two key areas of concern; the Development and Disaster Nexus, and the need for greater attention to risk communication.

“Some have argued that there was not adequate notification of the impending adverse weather provided by the meteorological offices. Findings have indicated that the Met Offices did indicate that there was a trough. I think the real issue is how that information would have been interpreted by the general public and the need for communication of potential risks associated with early warning,” he stated.

The Director also took the opportunity during the TAC meeting to acknowledge the support of the National Disaster Co-ordinators, as well as regional and international CDM partners for the quick support in providing response support to this event. He also recognised the tremendous spirit of solidarity and support provided by the Governments of the Region. (TL)