New Zealand and Australia continue support for Fiji following Tropical Cyclone Tomas

22 March 2010

Australia and New Zealand are making a joint contribution to the Fiji Red Cross Society of FJ$500,000 to help with relief and recovery work following Tropical Cyclone (TC) Tomas.

“The money will cover essential relief supplies used by the Red Cross to help people in the immediate aftermath of the cyclone, including the replenishment of emergency pre-positioned supplies”, said Ms Sarah Roberts, the Australian Acting High Commissioner.

Mr Phillip Taula, the Acting High Commissioner for New Zealand stated that “These supplies include clothing, blankets, insect repellent, cooking utensils and first aid kits. These supplies are critical given that Fiji is still in its cyclone season”.

“As in previous disasters we are grateful for the support from Australia and New Zealand which will help to ensure that we are ready for any future events”, said Alison Cupit, the Director General of Fiji Red Cross Society.

The support for the Red Cross is part of a wider package of assistance announced by Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Stephen Smith MP, and New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, the Hon Murray McCully of AU$1,000,000 from Australia and NZ$1,000,000 from New Zealand. Both New Zealand and Australia have also provided the use of two C-130 Hercules planes to deliver relief supplies and undertake aerial surveillance of affected areas in the Eastern and Northern Divisions.

Australia and New Zealand’s contribution to relief efforts in the wake of TC Tomas is a further expression of their commitment to work together to help the people of Fiji. New Zealand and Australia also provided a joint contribution to the Fiji Red Cross to help with relief work following TC Mick which struck Fiji in December 2009 and the devastating Fiji floods in January 2009.

ENDS