Jersey sends its "deepest sympathy" Madeira

Wednesday 10 August 2016

The Deputy Bailiff has written a letter of sympathy and support to the people of Madeira.

In it he says on behalf of Islanders he conveys his “deepest sympathy for the loss of life and suffering resulting from the severe wildfires which continue to threaten and displace the lives of many people from their homes and to destroy property.”

Wildfires have burned for three days in and around Madeira's capital Funchal, which is twinned with St Helier, with thousands being evacuated from their homes. The media have reported more than a hundred separate fires with one burning down the five-star Choupana Hills hotel.

More than 3,000 emergency workers are currently battling to get the fires under control, but their attempts are being hampered by strong winds, difficult terrain and temperatures topping 35 degrees centigrade

Jersey has a substantial Madeiran community, with many people having family and friends still living on the Portuguese Island, which is 450 miles off the North African coast.

Writing in the absence of the Bailiff, Tim Le Cocq says: “We have all been following closely, and with great concern, the international media reports showing the destruction and damage to the Island and the personal loss suffered by those most affected by the fires particularly near to the Funchal area. This is particularly so as this is not the first time such devastating events have affected Madeira.”

He goes on to say: “This incident has resulted in a sense of shock for many here who have friendships with Madeirans living and working in Jersey or who have families and friends in Madeira. We are watching the situation very closely and applaud the dedicated response being made by the Madeiran emergency services who are courageously dealing with this dangerous situation.”

He concludes by writing: “On behalf of the community in Jersey, I extend every sympathy and hope that the great efforts that are being made in response to the situation will bring this to an early close and return to normal life for the people of Madeira.”

Jersey's Chief Minister has also sent a message of support: “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those, both in Madeira and here in Jersey, who have been affected by the tragic fire in Funchal. We will be closely monitoring the situation and will contact Islanders, in particular Jersey’s Madeiran community, with any new or relevant information.”