MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Billson
Australia will provide $500,000 to a UN Flash Appeal to help the Seychelles recover from the Indian Ocean tsunami, the Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Bruce Billson announced today.
'Our contribution to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Flash Appeal will provide shelter for families and also be used to rebuild infrastructure and help with general economic recovery. The funds will be channelled through the United Nations Development Programme.
'The tsunami left one person in the Seychelles dead and caused serious damage to infrastructure on the coastal areas of Mahe and Praslin Islands and damaged coastal parts of La Digue and Cerf Islands.
'The fishing sector has been extensively affected, with many vessels either damaged or lost. Crops have been destroyed. Bridges, roads, the fishing port, jetties, hotels, public utilities, houses, water and sanitation have been damaged. Three hotels have had to close.
'The economy of the Seychelles is heavily dependent on tourism. Australian aid will be important in helping to restore services quickly,' Mr Billson said.
Australia has emerged as a leading aid donor in the response to the Indian Ocean tsunami, providing more than $1 billion in emergency relief and long-term reconstruction to countries affected by the disaster.
Media inquiries:
Shane Fairlie (Mr Billson's office) 0408 680 442
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590