MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Australia will provide further support for peace-building efforts in East Timor and help improve long-term disaster management capacities.
The Australian Government will provide $3 million to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support key humanitarian priorities.
In response to the Government of East Timor's recovery strategy we will help government ministries and local communities promote dialogue with internally displaced people in three districts in the east (Lautem, Baucau and Viqueque), three in the west (Ermera, Manufahi and Ailieu) as well as Dili. This project will be led by UNDP.
Our assistance through the IOM will improve long-term disaster risk management and build institutional capacities. It includes the provision of a technical adviser to East Timor's national disaster agency and engagement with district-level administrations and non-government organisations.
The United Nations estimates 100,000 East Timorese remain displaced following the political unrest and violence of April and May 2006.
East Timor is also prone to natural disasters, including flooding, earthquakes and drought which can result in crop failure and widespread food shortages.
This further support is in addition to the $17 million in humanitarian assistance Australia has provided to the people of East Timor since mid 2006.
Media Contact:
Courtney Hoogen (Mr Smith's Office) 0488 244 901
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590