Minister of International Development Hilde F. Johnson has decided to allocate NOK 1.1 million in emergency relief to victims of the tropical storm Jeanne in Haiti. This aid will consist of water purification equipment, food, blankets and shelter. The aid will be channelled through Norwegian Church Aid.

Jeanne has caused extensive flooding in Haiti. Preliminary figures indicate that more than 1000 people have died, and 1200 are missing. In the area around Gonaives, which was hardest hit by the floods, it is estimated that 80 per cent of a population of 230 000 have been affected.

Efforts are being made to determine the scale of the disaster and the need for help. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is following the situation and the UN’s assessment of it closely, and is considering providing additional aid.

Press contact: Head of Information Espen Gullikstad, mobile phone: 917 08 122