January 14, 2010

Newmarket-Aurora - All Canadians are deeply concerned about the impact of the recent earthquake in Haiti. I offer my sincerest condolences for those who have lost their family or friends. My thoughts and prayers are with the Haitian people at this time.
 
In response to this tragic event, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has stated that Canada stands ready to provide any necessary assistance during this time of need. As of the end of day January 13th, Canada has implemented the following response to the current situation:

• A Canadian Forces DART (Disaster Assistance Response Team) reconnaissance team has landed in Port-au-Prince, carrying urgent supplies and expert personnel to assess the situation.
• A larger deployment of emergency supplies, personnel, and search and rescue helicopters is in process of departing aboard a massive C-17 aircraft,
• The HMCS Halifax and HMCS Athabaskan, two Canadian naval ships loaded with food, bottled water, medical equipment and humanitarian supplies, have been ordered to set sail for Haiti to provide crucial support,
• The Minister of International Cooperation has announced an initial emergency contribution of $5 million to assist with the urgent humanitarian situation,
• The Canadian Embassy in Port-au-Prince is providing emergency support to Canadians citizens in need. 
  
  

Canada continues to work closely with local authorities, international organizations and UN agencies to help bring relief to those affected and provide support. Friends and relatives in Canada seeking information on Canadian citizens believed to be in Haiti should contact the Emergency Operations Centre by calling 1800387-3124 or, for those in Ottawa, 6139431055. They may also send an email to sos@international.gc.ca.
 
Residents wanting to provide assistance will find a list of experienced humanitarian organizations on the Foreign Affairs website at  http://international.gc.ca/international/index.aspx.