Dear members:
As many of you will know, the worst hurricane ever to make landfall in Jamaica struck the island last week. The damage was extensive, with high winds approaching 300 km/h, accompanied by heavy rains and flooding. Hurricane relief efforts are on-going, not just in Jamaica but through Cuba and Haiti and the Bahamas who are also feeling the impacts of this devasting storm. Six million people in the region have been affected, and rescue and repair operations are still underway. We know that they will have to continue over many months and years.
Our thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones and especially those here in Ontario who have ties to family and friends in these nations. The histories of Canada and the Caribbean have been intertwined for more than 200 years, and many OPSEU/SEFPO members are feeling the pain of Hurricane Melissa thousands of kilometres away from the storm. The hurricane will leave tears in its wake, and for many families and communities, rebuilding will take years. As trade unionists who deliver public services, we know the particular impacts of the loss of those services and we feel deeply for those who have lost their hospitals, schools, community centres and other public institutions at the same time that they are trying to deal with the loss of their homes and their livelihoods.
We join with others in Canada who are donating to reputable relief organizations. We have made a donation to the UN’s World Food Programme, which is on the ground in Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti and is working through regional hubs to provide immediate assistance. We are also working with NUPGE, our National Union, and other partners to encourage solidarity and support in these times with the peoples of the Caribbean. Please join us in making a donation if you or your local is able to do so.
In solidarity,
JP Hornick and Laurie Nancekivell
President and First Vice President/Treasurer, OPSEU/SEFPO