Ottawa, Ontario-The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today noted the continued need to respond to the cholera outbreak in Haiti and announced the Canadian government's support for Oxfam-Québec in its work to provide essential support in response to the cholera outbreak in Haiti.
"The Canadian government will continue to support the people of Haiti, who experienced the devastation of the January earthquake and continue to face hardship and loss as they deal with this outbreak of cholera," said Minister Oda. "The need is even greater following the recent passing of hurricane Tomas and its impact.
With Canada's support of $550,000, Oxfam-Québec will work to contain the spread of cholera in the Artibonite region of Haiti. One of the first organizations to respond to the outbreak in that region, Oxfam-Québec will provide clean water to affected populations and hospitals that are treating cholera patients. Oxfam-Québec will continue to treat confirmed cases and procure necessary medical supplies for hospitals and communities. To help prevent further spread of this disease, Oxfam-Québec will also launch a public information campaign for Haitians living in the region.
The funding from CIDA will give Oxfam-Québec the immediate means by which to strengthen its actions in response to the cholera epidemic in the zone of Petite Rivière, in the Artibonite region," says Pierre Véronneau, Executive Director of Oxfam-Québec. "Oxfam-Québec is grateful for this contribution. We are confident that these funds will enable us to reach more people with regard to access to water, sanitation, and hygiene."
This contribution to Oxfam-Québec brings Canada's total response to the cholera epidemic to $1 million, as announced by Prime Minister Harper on October 23. CIDA has also provided $450,000 to the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) to support the emergency deployment of experts and the procurement of medical supplies to treat cholera. PAHO will also conduct disease surveillance and information campaigns on preventative measures as well as coordinate the overall response as the lead agency for the health cluster in Haiti.
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Information:
Jessica Fletcher
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
