Upgrades to Guyana’s disaster preparedness and emergency response systems are included in the $111.4 billion allocated to the Office of the Prime Minister.

This was disclosed when the Committee of Supply examined the estimates on Monday evening.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips assured of Guyana’s readiness to confront emergencies.

This was in response to questions from Opposition Member of Parliament Amanza Walton-Desir, about the government’s contingency planning.

Prime Minister Phillips, a former army Chief of Staff, pointed to his extensive background in disaster response and management.

He explained that under the lead agency, Civil Defence Commission, funds have been set aside and comprehensive plans are in place to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters, should they occur.

“When you deal with a disaster it’s an in inter agency support, so we do have contingency plans and part of the consultancy is to further develop additional contingency plans,” he said.

PM also noted the CDC’s other plans, which include the continuation of countrywide educational and communication campaigns.  

Only recently, Guyana received commendation from the Jamaican government for the assistance it provided to the hurricane-stricken island.