MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce that Australia will provide $75,000 in emergency assistance for victims of the recent devastating earthquake in China.
The earthquake, measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale, hit Hebei Province last Saturday (10 January 1998) causing widespread damage and loss of life.
The death toll now stands at 50 people (estimated), while a further estimated 500,000 people are affected by this natural disaster.
Thousands of homes were destroyed leaving tens of thousands of villagers homeless. Many are now living in temporary shelters, such as tents, where they are battling to survive temperatures that have plunged to minus 20C.
Australia joins several other countries in providing emergency assistance. Through AusAID, we shall provide the funding to the United Nations Development Programme which is coordinating relief efforts.
Our contribution will be used to fund the purchase of shelter and clothing, as this is the most immediate need.
Together with many other Australians, I extend my sympathy to the families of the victims of the earthquake.
Media contacts:
Judi Nixon (Mrs Sullivan's Office) 07 5591 1011 or mobile 0411 287 258
Michelle Hardy (AusAID) 02 6206 4968