The British naval ship, the RFA Mounts Bay, equipped with a helicopter, arrived in the BVI this morning, September 8, as the United Kingdom (UK) promised efforts which have been described as slow by critics, are starting to show up.
The ship is expected to clear debris, rescue persons, and restore the ports of entry to some form of operation, to allow for humanitarian relief to reach the BVI from other countries.
The ship came from Anguilla, which was also affected by Hurricane Irma. The British naval relief team includes 40 Royal Marines and Army Engineers.
Reports from the UK also state that an additional ship is being deployed to the Caribbean.
Governor Gus Jaspert has stated that international assistance has been requested from the United Kingdom (UK), who is also consulting with other nations.
He said that assistance has also been sought through the International Red Cross, the Pan American Health Organization, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, and others.
However, he had stated that as they await their help, they must continue efforts to support each other and to salvage what they can.
There are confirmed reports of deaths, but the number is unknown.
Meanwhile, the BVI is also facing threat of another Hurricane, Jose, which is predicted to pass north of the Territory tomorrow, Saturday, September 9.
SOURCE: BVI Platinum
