News

Royal Navy aids British Virgin Islands recovery post-Hurricane Irma

Royal Navy personnel from HMS Ocean are aiding the relief effort on the British Virgin Islands post-Hurricane Irma, clearing debris from the now ravaged Governmental Central Administration Complex.

Royal Engineers, sailors and engineers are currently salvaging documents and equipment under the authority of the 59 Commando Squadron.

The sailors themselves were ferried onto Tortola – largest of the British Virgin Islands – by 1 Assault Group Royal Marines with the aid of Oceans Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel. Later, RFA Mounts Bay lent its support, delivering large quantities of building materials and equipment via its organic Mexeflote.

It was a perfect example of real world interoperability, with Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Engineers, Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Royal Logistics Corps each combining their efforts to make a lasting difference on the British Virgin Islands within two short hours.

Returning the Governmental Central Administration Complex to good working order is an absolute imperative. It will allow the various departments of government to function when they are most needed. During the arrival, heads of department were on-hand to advise where building materials should be kept.

Royal Navy aids British Virgin Islands recovery post-Hurricane Irma

Understandably, it’s a monumental undertaking. Both Irma and its sister storm Maria left Tortola devastated. According to Arriel Donovan, Facilities Manager at the Governmental Central Administration Complex: “The offices here have been ripped apart. We are salvaging what we can but so much has been completely destroyed.”

Royal Navy personnel are playing their part however, as Mr Donovan later explained: “The guys here today have already made a good start on the ground floor. We couldn’t comprehend starting without their help. We need this building up and running.”

As the relief effort across the British Virgin Islands shifts away from the emergency response and towards restoration, government infrastructure will be critical to ensure a timely recovery for the British Virgin Islands.

If you would like to join our community and read more articles like this then please click here.

The post Royal Navy aids British Virgin Islands recovery post-Hurricane Irma appeared first on Defence Online.

 

Who are we?

From publishing the first national directory of public sector contracts, to being the first to market with our online Tracker solution, we have been the true pioneers of technology and innovation in the public sector marketplace. Throughout our 39 years, we have continued to evolve and chart new territory – placing our customers at the heart of everything we do. Take your business to the next level with Tracker now.

If you request a demo today!

Download your Free UK Defence Industry Report

Start Your Free Trial Today

Download your Free UK Defence Industry Report

Download your Free UK Defence Industry Report

When you sign up for a 3 day free trial or demo.

Limited time only

    BiP Solutions owns DCI and we look after your details carefully. We offer a range of products, services and events (some of which are free) that help buyers tender more efficiently and suppliers find, bid for and win public and private sector contracts. Only tick this box if you wish to receive information about these. We will never share your details with third parties and you will have the opportunity of opting out of communications every time we contact you. For further details, please see our Privacy Policy