MV Christena Memorial in Nevis
The MV Christena Memorial in Nevis serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating disaster that occurred on August 1, 1970, when the ferry sank on a journey from Basseterre to Charlestown, claiming the lives of 233 persons.
Honouring the Memories
Before the early adjournment of the Thursday, August 01, 2024, sitting of the National Assembly in St. Kitts and Nevis, Members of Parliament (MPs) paid homage to and honoured the memories of those who died in the MV Christena disaster of August 01, 1970.
[]
Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, said while it is important that we remember those who perished during that historic ordeal, it is also necessary that we remember those who survived the traumatic experience.
"We must recognise those who lived and continue to live after surviving the tragedy," Prime Minister Dr. Drew said. "On this side of the [Honourable House], we fully recognise what happened with the Christena tragedy and we join in the remembrance of those who lost their lives, and for those who continue to live as survivors we want to remember them as well."
Condolences and Tributes
Condolences to the families affected by the 1970 disaster were also offered by the Parliamentary Representative for St. Christopher Four, the Honourable Samal Duggins.
"It was registered as one of the worst disasters that we’ve seen federally, and we must do well to remember all of those who would have perished and also to ensure that we do all in our powers to never have a repeat of such disasters," Minister Duggins said. "To the country, the families and to all who were impacted by that disaster I send my sincerest condolences, my love and my best wishes for strength and well-being."
The Honourable Member of Parliament for St. Christopher Three, Konris Maynard, also used the platform of Thursday’s National Assembly to record his sympathies as it relates to the MV Christena disaster.
"Our hearts go out to those family members who still have that lingering trauma and grief associated with the loss of loved ones, and also for us as a nation as we memorialise those lost souls on that tragic August morning. May their souls continue to rest in eternal peace and may we never forget that this happened and that we do everything in our power to never see another incident like this in the history of St. Kitts and Nevis," he said.
The MV Christena Disaster
Described by many as the single greatest catastrophe to have occurred in St. Kitts and Nevis, the MV Christena sank in the Narrows between the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis after encountering difficulty. Two hundred and thirty-three (233) persons died and 90 survived.
Conclusion
The MV Christena Memorial in Nevis serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating disaster that occurred on August 1, 1970, when the ferry sank on a journey from Basseterre to Charlestown, claiming the lives of 233 persons. It is essential that we remember the tragedy and pay homage to those who lost their lives, as well as those who survived the traumatic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the MV Christena disaster?
A: The MV Christena disaster was a tragic event that occurred on August 1, 1970, when the ferry sank on a journey from Basseterre to Charlestown, claiming the lives of 233 persons.
Q: How many people died in the disaster?
A: Two hundred and thirty-three (233) persons died in the disaster.
Q: How many people survived the disaster?
A: Ninety (90) people survived the disaster.
Q: What was the cause of the disaster?
A: The ferry sank in the Narrows between the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis after encountering difficulty.