MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Children and health services will benefit from an additional $15 million to assist with recovery and reconstruction efforts in Lebanon.
The latest funding brings Australia's total contribution for the post-conflict reconstruction of Lebanon to $24 million.
The majority of the funding will support restoring health infrastructure and providing adequate access to health facilities and services, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women and children.
The United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) will receive $5 million for urgently needed recovery programs, including restoration of water and sanitation services.
The WHO will receive $2.5 million to restore the country's health infrastructure and services.
A further $7.5 million will be provided for long term reconstruction once the Government of Lebanon and international agencies determine needs and priorities later this year.
This money builds on the $9 million Australia already committed in July and August to support the work of aid agencies in Lebanon.
Australia remains strongly committed to assisting the Government of Lebanon in its recovery efforts.
I am pleased that hostilities in southern Lebanon have ceased, allowing the Lebanese to rebuild their lives with the help of the international community.
Media contacts:
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590
Tony Parkinson (Mr Downer's Office) 02 6277 7500