Following the update from Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, on the situation of La Soufrière volcano in neighbouring St Vincent, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), through its disaster preparedness committee, is today (April 9) activating its port response plan to facilitate and receive evacuees.

In a statement, the SLASPA explained that the plan identifies the George F.L Charles Airport and the Castries Seaport as the designated entry points for evacuees.

The authority is working in close tandem with essential partners, particularly the Ministry of Health and Wellness to ensure adherence to St Lucia’s stipulated COVID-19 protocols.

General Manager of the SLASPA, Daren Cenac, noted, “Since the initial pronouncement of activity at the La Soufrière Volcano, the authority reviewed and strengthened various aspects of its port operations.”

“Our Airports Division is in active dialogue with the Eastern Caribbean Air Traffic Management Group to activate contingency plans for potential aviation disruption. As well, our Maritime and Seaports Divisions are working assiduously to ensure business continuity,” he added.

The SLASPA said it continues to work with the Government of Saint Lucia through the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) in Saint Lucia, other relevant, local and regional officials, and counterpart agencies to respond to any possible effects of the ongoing eruption in Saint Vincent.

La Soufrière entered the explosive eruption phase on Friday morning.

Ash fall, associated with the towering plume, has forced the closure of St Vincent’s Argyle International Airport until further notice. In a brief statement aiport management explained that the closure aslo includes the AIA Cargo Terminal.

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