Bahamian authorities before launching a disaster relief programme for the Islands.

Acting Cabinet Secretary Mr. Leo Mills said yesterday that in a telephone conversation with Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan, Bahamian prime minister Mr.

Hubert Ingraham said further assessment of the hurricane damage was needed before making requests for aid.

"At present, Government is waiting for this list,'' said Mr. Mills, "Once we know precisely what is needed in the islands, a relief programme will be put in motion.'' Bermuda has extended a help to hurricane-ravaged Caribbean islands in the past, giving more than $200,000 in aid to Montserrat following Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Bermuda Regiment soldiers have also been included in previous assistance programmes, although it is not known if troops will be flown to the Bahamas to help with damage repair.

The Bermuda Electric Light Company will send a six-member line crew to the devastated island of Eleuthera this weekend to help with repairs.

"We have been in touch with the Bahamas ever since Andrew hit,'' said Belco managing director Mr. Alf Oughton. "And while New Providence and most of the smaller islands are now basically back to normal, Eleuthera was the worst hit.'' He said the entire power distribution system on Eleuthera was destroyed, affecting up to 4,000 customers. In addition, an estimated 1,200 poles were reported down along with some 40 miles of overhead lines. Clearing of debris appears to be the most immediate task at hand, he said.

The Bermuda Red Cross has begun a fundraising drive on behalf of its sister office in the Bahamas. Local Red Cross administrator Ann Spencer-Arscott said numerous donation inquiries had been received during the past week, especially regarding Eleuthera.

Persons wishing to assist hurricane victims can make a donation to the Bermuda Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund at any local bank. Checks and deposit slips should clearly state that the money is specifically for Bahamian hurricane relief. Funds collected will be sent directly to the Bahamian Red Cross.

Mrs. Spencer-Arscott emphasised that this was not an official appeal, which must be approved and announced by the International Red Cross. She said monetary aid, not supplies, were being sent because of transport, security and cost problems.