Mottley said in an official statement yesterday that over the past two days Barbados mobilised itself to meet whatever difficulties a temperamental and unpredictable Emily
could have brought.

"It was imperative that requisite measures for national protection were put in place and, if [we were] to err, to err on the side of caution. The level of success that was achieved and the relative smoothness with which we were able to effect preparation, were in no small way attributed to the efforts of committed men and women who placed their energies at the service of the nation and to whom we are all indebted," said Mottley.

She thanked the administration and staff of the Central Emergency Relief Organisation (CERO) and its network of volunteers who opened and manned the shelters until the all-clear was given.

"We speak of the meteorological services, emergency services, the police and armed forces, the public and private sector representatives, all who marshalled their constituencies to ensure that every aspect of Barbadian life was as secure and safe as possible," she added.

Mottley also thanked Barbadians for the way they implemented their own domestic plans for shelter of family and property.

The fact that within the space of two hours after passing Barbados Emily strengthened itself into a Category 2 hurricane, gave testimony to its unpredictability.

"Today, Barbados can breathe a sigh of relief and give thanks for having been spared the worst.

"Yet even as we do so, we hold in our thoughts and prayers all those who this morning were assessing damage.

"The Government and people of Barbados reassure them of our support," she said.

Mottley added that "we now know the areas of greatest challenge" after being tested by Emily "but unfortunately, many countries never had the benefit of this opportunity".