The Ministry of the People and Social Development is moving to assist needy families, the elderly and the differently abled to get their houses in order before the hurricane season kicks in. This comes from Dr Glenn Ramadharsingh, Minister of the People and Social Development, who on Wednesday went by helicopter to Cap-de-Ville, Point Fortin from the Ulric Cross Air Station at Piarco. Ramadharsingh went to see first-hand the destruction caused by a freak wind on Tuesday and bring some relief to five families whose homes suffered damage when roofs were blown off. Ramadharsingh called on homeowners to get their properties in order and assessed to ensure that they could hold out to natural disaster.
He said persons who suspect they might be at risk should check the Web site or any office of his ministry and the ODPM for additional information and assistance. Ramadharsingh said his ministry will consider assisting the needy to undertake repairs to dilapidated structures so they will not suffer in the event of disaster. He said when the freak wind struck in Point Fortin, all associated agencies moved quickly to ensure that persons were not suffering. Ramadharsingh on Wednesday also distributed hampers and temporary food cards to victims of the freak wind.
Ramkissoon Harrichand, 74, whose house was affected, recalled the incident. He said the storm happened in a flash and in 20 seconds he lost his roof which was later recovered from a nearby empty lot. He said his roof was replaced with the help of several State agencies. However, a shed annexed to the house remained without a roof. Shazam Mohammed, 48, was not so lucky. He said his entire roof blew into a nearby river and the roofing sheets became unusable. He said his family of six suffered loss of appliances and most of the aquarium fish perished.