THE Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has called on the Government to swiftly respond to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Cuba.

“The collapse of the island’s electrical grid, further exacerbated by the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Oscar, has left much of Cuba without power, damaged vital infrastructure, and tragically claimed six lives. As our closest neighbour Cuba is in dire need of immediate support, yet we have not heard of any concrete plans for aid or assistance from the Jamaican Government,” the PNP said in a statement Wednesday.

Said the statement: “We believe this is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to a nation that has stood by us in numerous ways. Over the past four decades many of Jamaica’s medical professionals have received full scholarships to study in Cuba, significantly strengthening our health-care system. Cuban doctors and health-care workers have long been integral to our public health services, and many have made Jamaica their home.

“Cuba’s contributions extend far beyond health care. Our world-renowned athletic programme owes much of its success to Cuban technical expertise, most notably through their gift of the G C Foster College which has played a key role in the development of our athletes and sports administrators. When Jamaica and other Caribbean nations faced tough times, Cuba was one of the few countries that consistently offered support — whether in health care, education, sports, or infrastructure development,” said the PNP.

“It is now our turn to stand with Cuba in its hour of need,” said the PNP.