PNP urges Gov’t to provide assistance to Cuba amid crisis there

The People’s National Party (PNP) has called on the Government to swiftly respond to the worsening ongoing humanitarian crisis in neighbouring Cuba.

The Opposition party said a collapse of Cuba’s electrical grid, further exacerbated by the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Oscar, has left much of Cuba without power, with damaged vital infrastructure, and tragically claimed six lives.

“As our closest neighbour, Cuba is in dire need of immediate support, yet we have not heard of any concrete plans for aid or assistance from the Jamaican Government.

“We believe this is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to a nation that has stood by us in numerous ways. Over the past four decades, many of Jamaica's medical professionals have received full scholarships to study in Cuba, significantly strengthening our healthcare system. Cuban doctors and healthcare workers have long been integral to our public health services, and many have made Jamaica their home,” stated the PNP in a media release.

The local party said Cuba’s contributions to Jamaica extend far beyond healthcare. “Our world-renowned athletic programme owes much of its success to Cuban technical expertise, most notably through their gift of the GC Foster College, which has played a key role in the development of our athletes and sports administrators,” said the PNP.

“When Jamaica and other Caribbean nations faced tough times, Cuba was one of the few countries that consistently offered support, whether in healthcare, education, sports or infrastructure development,” it added

“It is now our turn to stand with Cuba in its hour of need. The PNP urges the Government of Jamaica to immediately mobilise efforts to provide relief and assistance to our longstanding ally. Cuba and its people should be reassured of the unwavering friendship and solidarity of their closest Caribbean neighbour,” the PNP concluded in the release.