(No. 5 - January 5, 2011 - 9:30 a.m. ET) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today offered Canada’s condolences to the people of Australia following widespread flooding, which has resulted in loss of life and extensive damage in the state of Queensland.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer condolences to the loved ones of those who lost their lives,” said Minister Cannon. “I also extend our sympathies to all those affected by the devastating flooding, which has had an impact on some hundreds of thousands of people, forced the evacuation of towns and caused significant loss to the agriculture sector. Our thoughts are with our close friend and ally during this challenging time.”
Canadian citizens in the affected areas who require emergency consular assistance should contact the Consulate General of Canada in Sydney at (2) 9364-3000. Alternatively, they may contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Emergency Operations Centre by calling collect 613-996-8885 or by sending an email to sos@international.gc.ca.
Friends and relatives in Canada seeking information on Canadian citizens believed to be in the affected areas should contact the Emergency Operations Centre by calling 1-800-387-3124 or 613-943-1055. They may also send an email to the address above.
For up-to-date information, consult Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Travel report for Australia.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
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