The first batch of 100 RV trailers that will be used to house 300 critical government personnel are on the way to Abaco as part of the effort to rebuild devastated communities following Hurricane Dorian.

The full complement of trailers is expected to arrive in Abaco by the weekend.

The workers will play an essential role in the reconstruction and recovery efforts on the island.

“Government workers will lay the groundwork for the return of residents and the establishment of temporary housing facilities,” said Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis.

“This will make it possible for residents to return home and start the process of rebuilding.”

Sixty trailers will be placed at the primary school, and 40 at the high school in Marsh Harbour.

The trailers are assigned to various government agencies, including 15 to the Ministry of Health; eight to airports; 20 to security forces; six for Ministry of Works; and one has been reserved as a workspace for senior government officials.

A protocol is being determined for the relocation of individuals back to Abaco.

A land site next to the Spring City subdivision is being prepared to create the Family Relief Centre, which will serve as temporary housing accommodations for families affected by Hurricane Dorian.

The Family Relief Centre will comprise 250 dome structures that will include plumbing, drainage, a sewer system and electricity.

Each dome can accommodate four to five people. Materials for the infrastructure work are scheduled to arrive on Abaco this week.

Workers are moving aggressively to have the The Port at Marsh Harbour fully operational by Wednesday 16 October.

Work has also started to fully reopen the Marsh Harbour international airport.

The Prime Minister also reported that the Department of Environmental Health will start removing debris from residential areas. Residents who have started to clean their property should ensure that all garbage is placed at the roadside without blocking the main roadway.

Prime Minister Minnis and Minister of State for the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, Management and Reconstruction, the Hon. Iram Lewis, are expected to visit Abaco this week to assess the progress of rebuilding efforts and meet with representatives of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce.

14 October 2019

Office of the Prime Minister

Commonwealth of The Bahamas