Roseau, Dominica, Dec 14, 2004 (Office of the Prime Minister) -The official estimate for necessary repairs, rehabilitation and reconstruction work to official buildings as a consequence of the recent earthquake and accompanying heavy rainfall is US$19.1 million.  This estimate was compiled by teams from the Ministries of Finance and Planning and Communications, Works Housing and take into account technical reports from government officials as well as teams of engineers made available through CDERA and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

This estimate takes account of funds needed for restoring public works, i.e. roads, bridges, schools and health facilities. It does not include the cost of repairs to private homes and other facilities, nor does it represent a full economic, social and environmental impact of the damage. A team led by the OECS Secretariat is presently in Dominica to begin work towards assessing the full development impact of the damage. 

The earthquake which struck Dominica on 21st November 2004 registered 6.0 on the Richter scale. It was accompanied by very heavy rainfall and repeated after-shocks. The ramifications of the earthquake damage are an especially regrettable setback to the country, in the context of the fact that the economy has begun to reap the benefits of its programme of economic consolidation, which has been well supported by international community.

The Government of Dominica is hopeful of attracting the support of the international community as it seeks to recover from the ravages of the recent earthquake.

Source: Office of the Prime Minister, Dominica - Press Release 306/2004