Governor Francis: Statia monitoring Venezuela medical Eevacuation readiness remains priority

STATIA--Her Excellency Alida Francis, Island Governor of St. Eustatius, says her office is closely monitoring developments in and around Venezuela in coordination with the National Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, emphasizing preparedness, public order, and continued readiness for medical evacuation.

While noting that St. Eustatius is geographically further removed from the current tensions in the region, the Island Governor said the situation may still raise concerns and could carry implications for the island. The Office of the Island Governor, which has responsibility for public order and safety, said it is tracking developments alongside Kingdom partners.

Francis confirmed that earlier today she and the Crisis Coordinator met with Dutch Caribbean crisis teams, the Kingdom Representative, and the Ministry of Defence to review the situation and confirm preparedness measures.

“Our priorities remain medical evacuation and public order and safety,” the Island Governor said. She noted that the helicopter remains available for medical evacuation, and that arrangements are in place to ensure access to emergency care and second line care if required. She added that public order and daily life on St. Eustatius remain unaffected at this time.

The Office of the Island Governor said the primary operational focus currently relates to medical evacuation beyond St. Maarten. That matter is being addressed in coordination with the St. Eustatius Health Care Foundation, the Health Insurance Office, and the Statia Government.

Residents and travelers were encouraged to rely on official airline and airport communications for flight-related information and to avoid circulating unverified reports. The Office of the Island Governor said further updates will be provided through official channels as necessary.

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