(2000-37) News Release
Ottawa - Maria Minna, Canada's Minister for International Cooperation, today announced $100,000 in urgent humanitarian assistance to help the victims of the recent earthquake in Sumatra, Indonesia. The funding will be channelled through the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
"The earthquake in Sumatra has caused extensive damage to people's homes and the local population urgently needs shelter and medical assistance," said Minister Minna. "Canada is moving quickly to assist victims of the earthquake through relief organizations on the ground."
The funding from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) will help provide shelter material, blankets, water, household kits and medical assistance. The contribution will be distributed to the IFRC, which is supporting the local Indonesian Red Cross relief efforts.
The earthquake, measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale, struck the Island of Sumatra last Sunday night. It has left over 100 dead and 500 injured and has caused extensive damage to homes and public utilities.
Information:
Robin Walsh
Office of the Minister for International Cooperation
Telephone: 819 953-3160
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819 953-6534
E-mail: info@acdi-cida.gc.ca