Prime Minister Perry Christie confirmed yesterday that the Exigency Order was signed that would allow persons significantly impacted by Hurricane Matthew to receive some financial relief in rebuilding their lives.

“The provision is to have duty free purchases. It will allow Bahamians to import duty free building materials,” Mr. Christie said.

In the wake of Hurricane Matthew, many persons across The Bahamas have to rebuild their lives from the ground up.

Mr. Christie noted that this is a feat that most persons affected by the storm will have difficulty in doing, therefore making this order so important.

Mr. Christie also noted that the Exigency Order is the way forward as Bahamians try to rebuild after Hurricane Matthew.

Because of this provision, Prime Minister Christie is encouraging Bahamians to purchase locally taking into consideration that there will be no duty or Value Added Tax (VAT) payments on items that are a necessity to rebuilding.

The order will cover building supplies, electrical and plumbing fixtures, household furniture and appliances as well as generators and automobiles.

“The structure has to be totally changed in terms of restoration and relief, integrating the work of NEMA and Captain Russell with the government,” Mr. Christie said.