Jane Nees BOP Regional Councillor www.janenees.co.nz

I can only imagine how hard it is for the people of Christchurch. The loss of family and friends, the damage to homes and businesses, the dislocation of a normal way of life, the uncertainty about the future, and the ongoing aftershocks must make things very difficult. The media coverage is sobering and reveals to us all the extent of the devastation and the size and scale of the recovery operation. I feel helpless, sad and very, very fortunate.

But amongst the sadness is a growing sense of pride because some very positive things are happening. Firstly, there is the recognition that our Civil Defence network is very effective and is doing a great job under very difficult circumstances. The tributes paid by international USAR teams about the professionalism and effectiveness of our control and command functions directing the rescue and recovery response to the Christchurch earthquake are very heartening and give us confidence.

Secondly, we are not alone in dealing with this disastrous event. The huge international response in providing assistance means that we have been able to progress through the rescue phase into the recovery phase as quickly as possible. The contributions of manpower and equipment are being supplemented by monetary assistance from all over the world. This is very humbling but also reassuring – no matter what happens, we are not alone in dealing with this tragedy.

Next, our leaders are doing a good job. The Mayor of Christchurch and the Prime Minister and his ministerial team are showing empathy and are sending reassuring messages while being decisive and responsive. They are leading strongly at a national and local level. The operational response team leaders – from Civil Defence, police, fire, ambulance and utility companies are sending clear messages and ensuring their teams are able to do the best job possible, while recognising that they too can become victims of this tragedy if not well looked after. Business and community leaders across the country are doing their part – their message is stay strong Christchurch, we are behind you.

Lastly – although I could go on and on finding glimmers of silver lining – the community support and response has been nothing short of amazing. Neighbours are assisting one another and forging strong bonds as a result. Strangers are reaching out helping hands to people in need. The army of volunteers who are turning out to help the clean-up, the businesses who are making generous donations of goods and services, the monetary donations that are rolling in, the spontaneous events being organised to show support, all show how strong we are as a nation.

This is the real sterling silver lining. It stands us in good stead to make a full recovery from what has really rocked this small nation of ours.

If you have any views on this or any other issue, please contact me on neesj@xtra.co.nz or ring me on 07 579-5150. Or you can check out my website at www.janenees.co.nz