Port Au Prince Airport is an opportunity for the community...

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Reply to Msg 4893

Port Au Prince Airport is an opportunity for the community.

The situation at the airport has been described as disorganized, with too many porters.

Unfortunately the conditions in P-Au-P affords little opportunity for able bodied residents who need to support themselves and their loved ones. Government offices were devastated in the earthquake of January 12th, so there is a distinct lack of oversight and services available at this time. P-Au-P is over crowded, jammed with construction and demolition vehicles, slow to navigate, and potentially a security risk to foreign travelers after dark. That being said, the people there are wonderful, hard working, intelligent and full of good humor -in the face of tremendous adversity.

They deserve the utmost consideration and sympathy for their losses.

Grifters exist at airports, bus stations and docks in every major city in the World, so P-Au-P is not unique in this regard.

I think most of us recognize that what is unique to this time and place is that needs far outstrip supplies, and the airport is one place where cash can be earned for service.

There is nothing wrong with tipping porters, or making a gift of money to people gathered at the airport.

However there is concern for ones own safety and security so it is advisable to arrange for transportation with a trusted driver in a four wheel drive vehicle in advance of your arrival in P-Au-P. Prices range between $125.00 to $165.00 USD plus meals, lodging for the driver and gas per day. Taxis are nearly non existent and not trustworthy.

Navigating the 24hr a day traffic and snarled, narrow streets is best left to those with an intimate, up to date knowledge of the city. Retain your drivers service for the duration of your visit, and don't skip an opportunity to refuel as gasoline is in short supply.

The throng of people of many Nations at the exit from the airport should be looked at as a perfect opportunity to organize and provide community outreach.

The people are there, money is there, all that is missing is simple planning and implementation.

The gateway to Haiti is a metaphor for the very real situation we face. It could serve as a model to the path forward.

David Rizzuti

Volunteer Coordinator
Community Collaborations International
Somerville, Massachusetts USA
Operation Green Leaves Volunteer Village
Arcahaie, Haiti

D. Rizzuti, May 19 2010, 12:48 PM

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