Continuity of gov't plan being created for major post-disaster events
A ‘Continuity of Government Plan’ is expected to be created in the British Virgin Islands to enable central government to continue certain functions in the event the territory is impacted by a major natural disaster.
This was revealed in a government media release which said the plan was discussed at a recent workshop that was hosted by the Office of the Deputy Governor in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management.
In his remarks at the aforementioned workshop, Deputy Governor David Archer, Jr said a system needed to be in place to allow for work to continue when the functions of government are significantly affected.
“It is those 24 through 48 hours following the occurrence of a disaster that are considered the most crucial and we must ensure that we develop systems that serve as a blueprint. So as a territory, we are able to remain resilient even in the midst of a disaster,” the Deputy Governor stated.
Consultant Atiba Clarke who facilitated the workshop said, when finalised, the continuity plan will go a long way towards benefitting the BVI.
“A lot of these issues have already been discussed based on the experiences of 2017. But this plan will help set it all out in one practical, cohesive document so that it can be used for future events and can be shared with those who will assume leadership functions should the territory be impacted again,” Clarke said.
According to the aforesaid media release, the final plan will involve undertaking a business impact assessment of government’s essential services, facilitating decision-making and continuity of operations, planning activities, and reducing disruptions of essential functions.
It will also include documenting the order of succession of critical management positions; identifying vital facilities, equipment, records, and other assets; and guiding an orderly transition to the continuity of operations, planning activities, and return to operations.
In his remarks at the aforementioned workshop, Deputy Governor David Archer, Jr said a system needed to be in place to allow for work to continue when the functions of government are significantly affected.
“It is those 24 through 48 hours following the occurrence of a disaster that are considered the most crucial and we must ensure that we develop systems that serve as a blueprint. So as a territory, we are able to remain resilient even in the midst of a disaster,” the Deputy Governor stated.
Consultant Atiba Clarke who facilitated the workshop said, when finalised, the continuity plan will go a long way towards benefitting the BVI.
“A lot of these issues have already been discussed based on the experiences of 2017. But this plan will help set it all out in one practical, cohesive document so that it can be used for future events and can be shared with those who will assume leadership functions should the territory be impacted again,” Clarke said.
According to the aforesaid media release, the final plan will involve undertaking a business impact assessment of government’s essential services, facilitating decision-making and continuity of operations, planning activities, and reducing disruptions of essential functions.
It will also include documenting the order of succession of critical management positions; identifying vital facilities, equipment, records, and other assets; and guiding an orderly transition to the continuity of operations, planning activities, and return to operations.