Message from the Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court to the citizens and residents of Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on the passage of Hurricane Beryl
Citizens and residents,
I am truly saddened to hear of the devastation that Hurricane Beryl wreaked on Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and its sister islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique. Although as Caribbean people we anticipate hurricanes and storms, we can never truly be prepared for the emotional and physical toll that it takes on our lives.
Hurricane Beryl has in its wake displaced many of your citizens and residents, particularly in Carriacou and Petit Martinique and the Grenadines; it has caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure; and it has left several of your communities without water, and electricity, and internet. Not only have your beautiful islands suffered widespread physical and economic loss from this catastrophic hurricane but also the loss of human life, which is heartbreaking.
On behalf of the Justices of Appeal, High Court Judges, Masters, and staff of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and my behalf, I extend deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who lost their lives as a result of the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
Please be assured that the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court stands in solidarity with you, our brothers and sisters. Our hearts go out to you at this time, and we join with the many people around the region in lifting your nation in prayer. We remain ready and willing to help in whatever way we can to assist on your journey to recovery.
The Court as an institution remains committed to ensuring the continued administration of justice in the states. The Emergency Measures Practice Direction, No. 1 of 2021 has already been activated on account of the state of emergency which has been declared for Carriacou and Petit Martinique, for seven days in the first instance. We will be working closely with the Judges and Registrars of the Supreme Court in Grenada, Saint Vincent, and the Grenadines to ensure a seamless continuation of court operations during this time.
As citizens of the OECS, although we know the considerable sorrow, fear, and anxiety that such natural disasters bring, we also know the resilience that is innate to us as Caribbean people. It is therefore my hope that, as you focus on your recovery, the indefatigable spirit for which our people are well known will push through and your unwavering ability to overcome adversity will prevail.
My thoughts and prayers remain with you all.
His Lordship, The Hon. Mr. Mario Michel
Chief Justice (Ag.)
