In the aftermath of last week’s devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, the Trinidad and Tobago Government has announced plans to use the Galleons Passage ferry to deliver humanitarian relief to La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit regions. The aid, collected through a national relief drive, will be assembled at the Point Lisas collection centre.
The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, have reportedly claimed 2,295 lives, left around 50,000 people missing, displaced 13,000 people, and damaged or destroyed approximately 60,000 buildings. International assistance, including a US$5 million disaster relief fund from energy company Shell, is pouring in to support response and recovery efforts. Shell plans to channel its contribution through the World Food Programme and humanitarian partners to provide emergency food, essential supplies and assistance to vulnerable communities.
However, the government’s response has not been without criticism. Former Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister, Amery Browne, has called for more urgency. He suggests that the government consider making a direct financial contribution to Venezuela, declaring a national day of mourning and solidarity, and donating field hospitals to assist recovery efforts.
In addition to the government’s initiative, numerous private sector and civil society organisations have launched independent relief campaigns. These include Blue Waters, the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce, the Presbyterian Church, Living Waters Community, and the Opposition PNM, all collecting essential items for transport to Venezuela in the coming days.
