Long Island MP Loretta Butler Turner and a group of relief workers have transported over 100,000 pounds of relief items to the victims of Hurricane Joaquin, Central Grand Bahama MP Neko Grant said yesterday.

Grant was speaking in the House of Assembly after Prime Minister Perry Christie provided an update on the impact of the storm.

"I was asked to apologize on behalf of the member for Long Island who is unable to be with us today as she is in Long Island doing what she has been doing for the past several days," Grant said.

"She has also asked me to inform this House that as of yesterday, in partnership with Trans Island Airways, Odyssey Aviation, Long Island Association and Archdeacon Keith Cartwright, they have delivered over 100,000 pounds of food, water and medicine to all of the affected islands.

"She did not limit the effort to Long Island. I had the privilege of visiting her command center yesterday and I was impressed with the team that she has assembled. She has assembled a team of young professionals."

The group's command center was set up on Saturday at Odyssey.
Hundreds of private citizens and corporate sponsors have donated goods over the past several days.

"They have flown over 235 hours; they have assisted in the evacuation of some 85 persons and over 350 volunteers have been involved in this operation," Grant said.

He added that the group has also provided transportation for several public officials.

"I believe she is like Nehemiah. She is doing a good job on the wall, and she wouldn't come down," said Grant, referring to Butler-Turner.

Hurricane Joaquin battered Long Island, Rum Cay, San Salvador, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay and other islands in the central and southeastern Bahamas for up to 48 hours last week. Many residents were left homeless. Several Crooked Island residents were evacuated to New Providence.

Butler-Turner's group is one of many that is bringing relief to the victims. During his communication, Christie thanked all groups who are assisting in the efforts. Opposition Leader Dr. Hubert Minnis also encouraged Bahamians to make donations.

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