$2m to repair homes in GB

Scenes from Grand Bahama in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, above and below. $2m has been allocated for home repairs in Grand Bahama. Photos: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff

As of Wednesday, March 14, 2018

SOME $2m has been allocated for home repairs in Grand Bahama where some 6,000 homeowners have reported roof damage as a result of the two most recent hurricanes to hit the island.

Iram Lewis, the parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Works, announced officials have already started distributing cheques for roof repairs.

During a press conference on Monday, the MP for Central Grand Bahama reported that some 125 people have already received a payout.

Homeowners awaiting assistance from the National Emergency Management Agency for home repairs are being asked to comply with requirements so that they are processed quickly.

In the House of Assembly last week during his contribution to the mid-year budget debate, Mr Lewis reported that 550 people have complied with requirements.

The parliamentary secretary said his staff is working diligently to process applications but said the process cannot be completed until necessary documents are submitted.

With the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season approaching, Mr Lewis is appealing to cheque recipients to use the funds to repair their homes.

In October 2016, Hurricane Matthew brought severe damage to homes, businesses, and hotels on several islands. In September 2017, as Hurricane Irma passed near The Bahamas, it produced tornadoes that damaged homes and businesses in Grand Bahama.