I am still overwhelmed at the quick coordinated response that emanated from the Cane Grove Flooding.

The first reports of flooding reached Georgetown by 3:00 a.m. on November 3. The response was immediate.

The Ministry of Agriculture had people out there by 5:00 a.m., which is simply amazing. The level of organisation that the team operated on is to be commended.

Consideration was given not only to mending the breach, but there was a humanitarian approach, whereby the total needs of the residents were addressed.

The Ministry of Local Government was out there to do an assessment by 9:00 a.m. and the Ministry of Health had a team in Cane Grove by 10:00am on November 3.

President Bharrat Jagdeo made the first of three visits to the area at 2:00p.m. on the same day of the breach.

And the list goes on and on!

From day one of the disaster, Government has been there rendering assistance and ensuring that there is no undue suffering.

According to reports, more than 700 persons have been vaccinated as of November 9, 2001. Food hampers and meals were distributed.

GUYWA was in the area from Saturday, providing fresh water. The Guyana Defence Force was also there throughout the entire time, providing various means of assistance.

This entire relief was extremely well organized and really demonstrates how far we have come as a country, a people and a Government.

Detractors should be ashamed of themselves. This entire effort demonstrated the humane side of the Government, as well as the level of efficiency that as a people, we are capable of.

I applaud President Jagdeo for his involvement and his dedication towards making this situation a little easier and I thank each person involved in the emergency relief efforts.
Good work was indeed done.
R.G.