MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am shocked and saddened at the latest news that ten local Red Cross workers
were amongst 200 civilians killed in Zaire.
Based on information received from the International Committee of the Red
Cross, the tragedy occurred while the local volunteers were helping civilians
wounded in the town of Kenge, 200 kilometres east of Kinshasa.
It is appalling that volunteers working to help victims of war are no longer
guaranteed the sort of protection traditionally ensured under the banner of the
Red Cross.
It's particularly tragic that we heard of this atrocity on World Red
Cross/Red Crescent Day.
Australia has been actively supporting the humanitarian efforts in this
region since the conflict began.
Media contact: David
Alexander (Mr. Thomson's office) (06) 277 4665 (w) mobile (0412) 146 181
Andrea McLaughlin (AusAID) (06) 206 4966