Hi guys and gals.. this doesnt appear to have made much news either on the blogs or on the media.. so I thought I’d post this:
August 30 – The Government of Canada today issued the following statement in support of those who have endured the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in the United States:
“On behalf of all Canadians, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones as a result of Hurricane Katrina, as well as our sympathies to those who have suffered great losses and personal hardship,” said Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan. “During this difficult time, we are offering our support to our friends and neighbours.”
The Deputy Prime Minister added that she has contacted U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and advised him that Canada stands ready to provide assistance if needed. In addition, the Minister of Health, Ujjal Dosanjh, has directed the Public Health Agency of Canada to contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and offer any assistance that may be helpful, such as emergency medical supplies contained in the National Emergency Stockpile System.
In short, if you guys need any help in the Gulf Coast and/or New Orleans, just ask.
Update [2005-8-31 22:47:32 by tribe34]: I just saw this story on Yahoo.ca giving more
specifics on what Canada can offer.. and also that individual Canadian provinces and relief agencies are now waiting to help:
“Yesterday, the Department of Human Health Services in the U.S. contacted our public health agency and asked for an inventory of emergency supplies that, if they need them, we could send at a moment’s notice.”
That inventory was completed Wednesday.
American officials are still assessing their needs, but in coming days Canada will be prepared to send everything from water purification systems to the Canadian military’s Disaster Assistance Response Team.
According to the story, the Canadian provinces of Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba and their respective Premiers are offering aid, and the Canadian Red Cross is ready to go as well.
We are ready to help.. I hope you folks will take us up on the offer… I’m a bit worried that pride might stop you from asking:
Officials in McLellan’s office said there had been no official request from the U.S. for help.
