M110

14 September 1995

AUSTRALIAN DISASTER RELIEF FOR ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

The Australian Government will provide $50 000 through the aid program to assist disaster relief efforts in Antigua and Barbuda following massive devastation caused by Hurricane Luis, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Evans, announced today.

Latest reports indicate that over 90 percent of housing and 60 percent of government buildings have been damaged or destroyed by the hurricane, which struck the Caribbean country last Tuesday. Approximately 1700 people are in need of emergency shelter and there is an urgent requirement for medical supplies, generators and equipment to restore power and communications services.

Relief efforts are being coordinated by the UN's Department of Humanitarian Affairs which will use Australia's assistance to provide tents, blankets, water containers, medical supplies, plastic sheeting and building supplies.

"While we are grateful that the hurricane did not result in substantial loss of life, the enormous destruction it caused in Antigua and Barbuda will take some time to rebuild.

"Total damage is estimated at $US 350 million, which represents a substantial economic burden for this fellow Commonwealth country.

"Australia shares with the Caribbean the threat of violent tropical storms and the Australian Government is pleased to help provide urgently needed assistance for the people affected by this hurricane", Senator Evans said.

For further information contact:

Robert McKinnon (AusAID) 06 276 4960