MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce that Australia is to contribute a $500 000 initial
assistance package to combat the worsening drought in Papua New Guinea
(PNG).
Over the last four months severe frosts and drought associated with the
increasing El Nino effect have taken their toll, affecting the regions of
Western Province, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands and Bougainville.
Up to a million people, including the elderly and children, are reported to
have been affected by the worsening situation.
Although it has not yet reached a crisis stage the situation could rapidly
change if rain does not fall within the next few weeks.
The PNG Government's immediate focus has been on identifying the critical
areas of need and developing the most appropriate responses for both the short
and longer term.
As part of the overall assistance package, Australia will provide specialists
in logistics, health and agriculture and help with the establishment of an
emergency operations centre which will coordinate future relief activities.
Dr. Bryant Allen and Dr. Mike Bourke from the Australian National University
are to undertake an immediate and detailed assessment, reporting back to both
Governments in about four weeks time. The researchers are international experts
on agriculture and food distribution systems.
Because of the difficulties in obtaining accurate information from remote and
inaccessible drought affected areas, a thorough assessment is needed before
additional relief funds can be effectively committed.
Australia has assured the PNG Government that we stand ready to consider
further requests for assistance as a matter of urgency.
Media contact: Innes Willox (Minister's office) 02 6277 7500
/ 0411 414 695
Mark Giffard (AusAID) 02 6206
4967