Clear skies but millions for clean up bill

Dominica would need at least $35 million in recovery efforts following the ravages caused by the outcome of Hurricane Omar.

According to Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, the estimated amount would recover infrastructural damage.

He told a press conference on Friday that the Venezuelan Government has already approved US$4.5 million for the construction of the Soufriere/Scotts Head roads which were badly devalued by the weather system.

During an interview with reporters, Public Works and Infrastructural Development Minister Ambrose George had expressed that the Government would need millions of dollars to repair the damage cause.

Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Ports Charles Savarin echoed that sentiment adding that there would be a big clean up bill.

PM Skerrit said recovery efforts have begun, and recognised some assistance would be needed.

"As an initial response to the destruction suffered by the fisheries sector, the [Venezuelan] Government has approved three million dollars to assist fishermen in restoring what they lost. As early as this weekend the Ministry can start the process," he added.

PM Skerrit has also asked fishermen to contact their local fisheries officer in that regard. "Fishermen are not entitled by any law to that type of support. The Government has recognised that it is a natural disaster and some would not be able to replace their lost property. It is relief and not compensation," he informed.

According to him, his Government has given a firm commitment to every fisherman who has been affected that they will be assisted in the quickest possible time.

The Dominican Government will give all fishermen who suffered damages $250every week for a duration of one month.

A proposal has been made to Cabinet by the Fisheries Minister Matthew Walter to construct boat houses to protect fishermen engines and equipment.

Government will also seek to assist in the construction of new housing for the storage of fishing boats and equipment in the Pottersville community.