Kingston, Jamaica, December 3rd, 2013 (CDEMA, ODPEM) 鈥� The official Opening Ceremony of the 8th Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster Management held last evening at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa, Montego Bay, set the stage for the launching of the regional Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy 2014-2024.
Executive Director of CDEMA, Ronald Jackson, during yesterday鈥檚 opening ceremony explained that the Strategy which was developed by key regional stakeholders has identified the priorities for the next 10 years.
鈥淭he 2014-2024 Strategy along with its associated Implementation Plan will promote an integrated risk management approach to building resilience and safeguarding lives and livelihoods against multiple risk scenarios in the region for the period 2014-2024.
It will also present a framework for dealing with emerging risks related to climate change鈥�, said Mr Jackson.
The CDM Conference which is being held in Jamaica for the fourth time,continues to be a premier event for the region as it allows for sharing of experiences and expertise, promotes the exploration and adaptation of traditional and new trending approaches; and more importantly promotes the CDM agenda.
The keynote address was delivered by the Honourable Noel Arscott, Minister of Local Government & Community Development, Deputy Chair CDEMA Council of Ministers on behalf of the Most Hon. Portia Simpson-Miller, Prime Minister. Minister Arscott reaffirmed the commitment of the Jamaican Government to the development of the National Disaster Management Legislation.
The legislation which is currently under review intends to clarify the roles and responsibilities within sectors and the different structures within the National Disaster Management System. It also seeks to ensure better coordination among organizations (public and private), greater accountability on the part of respective lead entities while facilitating stronger measures for risk identification and reduction.
鈥淎dditionally, effort is being made to ensure that new legislation reflects and systematizes the comprehensive and integrated approach required to ensure that Comprehensive Disaster Risk Management is prominently placed on the national and sectoral agenda鈥� said Minister Arscott.
The official opening of this year鈥檚 conference, convened under the theme, CDM for Resilient Development: A Good Investment, attracted over 200 delegates from countries across the region and internationally.
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