Media Release
12 October 2005
Send NZ Fire Service to Pakistan Now – Mark
New Zealand First MP Ron Mark today called on the Prime Minister to send New Zealand Fire Service’s Urban Search and
Rescue Team to Pakistan to aid those trying desperately to find people still trapped in rubble following this week’s
devastating earthquake.
“We have 100-odd, highly skilled people, with millions of dollars worth of equipment, chomping at the bit to get some
operational experience of this kind.
“This is an ideal opportunity for them to gain that experience and at the same time play a positive role in an
international relief effort,’ said Mr Mark.
“There have been many occasions when the expertise of this team could have been used, such as after the Tsunami, but
wasn’t.
“Instead they are having to sit back now, as then, and watch the heartbreaking scenes on the news reports.
“Come on Prime Minister – give the word and put them on a plane.
“We may one day be glad of the experience they gain, right here at home,” concluded Mr Mark.
ENDS