On July 9, journalist Alec Castonguay stated that six months after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Canada hasn't disbursed funds to help the Haitian people. We would like to address this and provide an accurate update to Canadians on the support being given to the Haitian people.
The Government of Canada, through CIDA, has disbursed $150.15 million, primarily to Canadian and international humanitarian organizations towards the distribution of food assistance, clean water, shelter, health care, surgical services, rubble removal and security for children in Haiti. Canada has also provided $33 million in debt relief.
Canada will continue to work with its partners and the Government of Haiti to meet the essential basic needs of the victims of the earthquake while addressing the early recovery and reconstruction efforts to rebuild a better future for the Haitian people.
The Haitian government has indicated that a coordinated and managed approach over the long term is as important as short term assistance.
It is important to ensure that Canada's support is provided responsibly. The accountability expected by Canadians means that their support is spent wisely and achieve the results we believe that the people of Haiti deserve.
The Honourable Beverley J. Oda Minister of International Cooperation
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon Minister of Foreign Affairs
