The Tribune

EXUMA park wardens have been thanked for their “heroic efforts” during the disastrous grounding of a Haitian sloop which led to the death of at least 30 migrants.

When the crisis first came to light, wardens Henry Haley and Kendedo Marshal, along with two Defence Force officers, responded in an Exuma Park vessel.

They continued to help throughout the rescue effort, which saw more than 100 migrants safely removed from the area.

Supt McDaniel, who is in charge of the police in Exuma, said: “It is common in the Exuma community for volunteers and residents to respond to emergencies.

“It is also extremely helpful that ECLSP warden Henry Haley is reserve police officer.”

The tragic grounding of the 40-foot sloop in Bahamian waters is being described by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force “as the worst immigration disaster in history”.

The RBDF transported 119 survivors to Nassau, most of them in very poor condition, and the recovery of the drowned bodies was traumatic for all concerned.

Assistance

RBDF Sr Lt Carlon Bethell, officer in charge of operations, personally thanked the BNT wardens for their efforts. He said: “To Mr Haley and the team that rendered assistance to HMBS Yellow Elder during the rescue of the 104 Haitian migrants which ran aground West of Harvey Cay earlier this week, the effort of the team was nothing short of exceptional.

“The Exuma Park wardens should be commended for their timely response, diligent work and unwavering support in the rescue efforts of the Haitian migrants and collaborative efforts with the RBDF as a whole.

“On behalf of HMBS Yellow Elder, and as the on scene commander of the rescue operation, I extend our sincerest gratitude to Mr Haley and his team.”

Eric Carey, executive director of the Bahamas National Trust, which oversees the national park system, was quick to praise his staff for their outstanding efforts.

“They operate in an isolated outpost and are part of the Exuma community.

“The saving of human lives and lending assistance in times of emergency is an understood part of our wardens’ duties.

“However these tragedies take an enormous emotional toll on all who are involved. Wardens Henry Haley and Kendedo Marshall went well beyond the call of duty in this instance.

“The BNT is fortunate to have wardens who display courage and compassion when it comes to dealing with tragedies such as this.”