December 22 2025

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is expressing solidarity with all those affected by Hurricane Melissa that has wreaked havoc in the Caribbean.

The storm, one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes ever recorded, caused destruction to people’s homes and livelihoods and displaced hundreds of thousands of people in the region. Most affected is Jamaica, where Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 5 hurricane and caused catastrophic damage. The storm also impacted Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos.

The scale of the damage and devastation, particularly in Jamaica, is difficult to comprehend. The storm, and flooding and landslides that followed, caused widespread damage to homes and critical infrastructure. The storm’s impacts have threatened access to clean water, food, and health care.

Although the storm has passed, many people remain displaced and living in emergency shelters, their lives upended.

We know that public services, and the workers who deliver them, are greatly impacted during disasters. They will also play a vital role in the recovery and rebuilding.

NUPGE has joined other groups and communities in supporting the relief efforts. Through its John Fryer Fund, NUPGE has contributed to the Canadian Red Cross’ Hurricane Melissa appeal. On the ground, the Red Cross is supporting efforts to provide emergency shelter and supplies, including clean water, health and hygiene kits, medical supplies, and mosquito nets. The Red Cross is also providing movement and communication supports.

Climate change is making storms like hurricanes more intense. Hurricane Melissa is a sobering reminder of the need to take urgent action to reduce emissions and invest in adaptation through a climate justice approach. Countries like Canada have a duty to contribute to climate finance and other efforts to support Global South countries who are the most impacted by the climate crisis and address historical injustices.