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Overseas Territories director in Bermuda

Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, welcomes Ben Merrick, the United Kingdom Director of Overseas Territories, to the Ministry Office. (Photograph supplied)

A British ambassador and the Governor thanked a disaster response team for their work during the storms.

Ben Merrick, the Director of Overseas Territories, and John Rankin both expressed their thanks for the preparation efforts of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation team.

They also commended their close work with the Emergency Measures Organisation during Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Storm Jerry.

The Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation team organises and updates the disaster plans of Bermuda, and ensures that government departments train their staff to carry out these plans.

Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, welcomed Mr Merrick and the Governor to the Ministry Office in Hamilton.

He said: “During our meeting this morning, I shared with the Governor and Mr Merrick that in creating the DRRM team, we selected individuals with the necessary skills, experience and expertise.

“Team members have been on many committees and groups and have been integral in the development of all of Bermuda’s national emergency plans.

“They were able to step in to swift action these past few weeks in dealing with the impending storms and I join the Governor and the Overseas Territories Director in commending their commitment and dedication to Bermuda.”

Mr Merrick is responsible for UK policy towards its overseas territories with a particular focus on good governance, the rule of law, economic sustainability and international relations.

He arrived in Bermuda yesterday and leaves tomorrow.

The DRRM team is directed by Steve Cosham, a 37-year veteran of the Bermuda Police Service.

Other members of the DRRM team include Kelly Trott, principal customs officer; Troy Furbert, a divisional officer with the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service; Dean Rubaine, a Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant with the Royal Bermuda Regiment; Lyndon Raynor, a sergeant with the Bermuda Police Service; Rache Hodsoll, a health department disaster coordinator; and Stuart Daniels, a cybersecurity expert.