The R3 Cayman Foundation has donated a JCB backhoe to the Cayman Islands Regiment to help strengthen Cayman’s ability to respond to natural disasters.
It will play a crucial role in addressing a difficult challenge faced by rescue workers during emergencies – the swift clearance of roads in affected areas, a press release said.
The Cayman Islands Regiment is the first formal military unit within the Cayman Islands and assumes a pivotal role in disaster relief and security.
Regiment commander Lieutenant Colonel Roger Carter said this second backhoe will significantly enhance disaster-relief efforts.
“[This] will now allow us to strategically deploy one backhoe to cover the eastern region of Grand Cayman and another to cover the western side in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.”
Multi-use machine
The digger has a front shovel, which doubles as a bulldozer, and a rear excavator which makes it adept at removing debris, digging drains and manoeuvring heavy objects.
It will also be used for regiment training, exercise deployments and supporting Cayman community projects.
Massive Equipment facilitated the procurement process of the digger, which amounted to about US$84,000, as well as shipping and pre-inspection.
Michael Meghoo, R3 Cayman Foundation readiness chair, said the charity is pleased to continue to enhance Cayman’s readiness in the face of natural disasters.
“The equipment provides additional resilience to our emergency services and will facilitate more rapid assistance to affected communities during crisis,” he said.
The latest donation follows a series of contributions, including $110,000 to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service for advanced imaging equipment.
The charity also donated US$60,000 to the East End Community Emergency Response Team for acquisition of a mobile trailer and essential emergency equipment.
Governor as principal
On 12 Oct., Governor Jane Owen accepted the role of principal for the R3 Cayman Foundation to ensure its good governance.
R3 chair Dale Crowley said: “We are honoured and delighted that Her Excellency has agreed to continue the close relationship between the Governor’s office and R3.”
He said she will provide insights as to how R3’s readiness initiatives can support security enhancements in both normal and post-disaster circumstances.
“Her expertise from decades of service with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office will provide R3 with valuable global perspective on how to best position our country for enduring resilience,” Crowley added.
Since its inception in 2020, the R3 Cayman Foundation has channelled over $7.7 million towards local non-profit organisations and governmental agencies.
Its readiness committee contributed more than $2 million to proactive disaster preparedness.
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