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GOVERNMENT departments, civil society and private sector organisations and NGOs have stepped up to launch a series of comprehensive relief efforts for Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread damage and displacement across the island on October 28.

Acting on the directive of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government announced the launch of a national collection drive for Jamaica on October 30. The initiative forms part of a wider humanitarian response supported by businesses and civil society.

In a statement on October 30, the ministry announced the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee to co-ordinate national relief efforts.