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OAS Secretary General Expresses Concern over Effects of Tropical Storm in Dominica

  August 28, 2015

The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, has expressed his deep concern over the loss of life and damage to infrastructure and property in the Commonwealth of Dominica following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika.

Even as the full scope of the devastation wrought was being assessed on the ground, the Secretary General transmitted to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit his personal sadness over the tragic effects of the disaster and his concern for the people of Dominica, and pledged the assistance, solidarity and support of the OAS.

Since assuming office at the end of May, the Secretary General has prioritized a major initiative on Natural Disasters as one of the areas of focused action, taking into account the impact of natural disasters on life, property and national economies, and emphasizing the imperative of adequate planning, and the need to prepare and to respond appropriately.

The OAS will extend to the Commonwealth of Dominica the maximum contribution from the Inter-American Aid Fund (FONDEM), along with the organization’s commitment to providing technical expertise and assistance.

Reference: E-222/15