MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce the Australian Government will provide the Solomon Islands with emergency assistance to help them deal with the drought that is affecting parts of the country.
Last week, the island of Bellona was officially declared a disaster area by the Solomon Islands Government. The Solomon Islands National Disaster Council is monitoring other parts of the country where the effects of the drought are becoming apparent.
Tomorrow, an AusAID-funded Australian disaster management expert will fly into Honiara to assist the National Disaster Council. Mr Joe Barr will assist the NDC with preparations for drought assessments in selected parts of the country.
In addition, the Australian Government is purchasing rice, water containers, hand pumps and vegetable seeds for transport to Bellona Island. All supplies are being purchased in the Solomon Islands and a ship is being chartered to transport the goods.
The total cost of the assistance package is $63,000. It follows a direct request for assistance from the Solomon Islands Government
The Australian Government, through AusAID, is monitoring the drought situation in the Solomon Islands and will consider requests for further assistance following the report of the assessment mission.
Media contacts:
Deborah Nesbitt (AusAID) (02) 6206 4966
Judi Nixon (Parliamentary Secretary's office) 0411 287 258, 07 5591 1011