Ethnic Councils applaud Government’s aid package
PRESS RELEASE: GOVERNMENT AID – TSUNAMI DISASTER – 18th JANUARY 2005
The Federation of Ethnic Councils applauds the Government’s aid package announced today.
For such a small country, the aid package announced is very generous indeed.
The Government has responded on many
levels:
- the emergency response immediately after the
disaster,
- the considered approach to further aid in
consultation with the United Nations,
- the Day of
Remembrance in which many New Zealanders participated,
-
the personnel sent to the disaster area, and
- this
package.
The Federation its members and their families affected by the Tsunami are very thankful.
Although the Tsunami was a one off summer catastrophe, the response from us all needs to be ongoing - for many summers to come. The Government realized this when developing the package, and has acted accordingly.
The Federation is very pleased that the Government’s package will not impact on any other aid activities the Government is involved with.
A number of different countries with different cultures and beliefs have been affected by this tragedy. We are hopeful that the New Zealand Government ensures that aid and support given to those in need in these countries enables the appropriate respects and traditions to be adhered to in the provision of services.
We would also like to pay tribute to those working tirelessly in very difficult circumstances over in the area; they are doing a wonderful and necessary job.
Our thoughts are also with those who have lost loved ones, or are waiting for news of loved ones. Many of us are suffering at the moment whether our loved ones are from the affected areas or from New Zealand, we are in this together.
We humbly request New Zealanders to continue to give, and advise that donations can be sent to the Federation. All donations made to the Federation will be provided with an official receipt. Amounts donated are tax deductible. Donations can be sent to. South Asia Tsunami Relief Fund, New Zealand Federation of Ethnic Councils PO Box 1409 Wellington
ENDS