August 4, 2011
Tropical Storm Emily is expected to reach Haiti on Thursday evening. Severe rainfall is expected in some areas that could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides. Canadian officials in Ottawa and at the Canadian embassy in Port-au-Prince are actively monitoring the progress of the storm and its potential impact on individuals and communities in Haiti, especially those who are living in temporary shelters and displacement camps. Our government representatives are working closely with experienced humanitarian partners in the region to identify and respond to humanitarian needs as they arise.
In preparation for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season, and because Haiti is regularly affected by tropical storms, the Government of Canada, through CIDA, has already deployed two Inter-agency Emergency Health Kits from the Agency's emergency stockpile, which is managed by the Canadian Red Cross Society.
The two kits contain medical supplies and pharmaceuticals to cover the needs of 20,000 people for as long as three months. These supplies arrived in Haiti on August 3, and will be distributed as needed by the Pan American Health Organization from its warehouse in Port-au-Prince.
The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation as it develops, and stands ready to further respond and help the people of Haiti as needs arise.
Beverley J. Oda
Minister of International Cooperation
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Information:
Justin Broekema
Press Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: justin.broekema@acdi-cida.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
