Norway gives NOK 9 million to field hospital in Haiti

Minister of International Development Hilde F. Johnson has decided to contribute NOK 9 million to the establishment of a field hospital in Gonaives, Haiti. The Norwegian Red Cross will be responsible for transport and the running of the hospital. NOK 1.1 million has already been allocated to Norwegian Church Aid to help it distribute clean water, food, water purification equipment, etc. in the area. Norwegian assistance to Haiti now totals NOK 10.1 million.

The tropical storm Jeanne has caused heavy flooding in Haiti, and provisional figures indicate that more than 1000 people have died and that 1200 people are missing. In the Gonaives area, which is the hardest hit, 80 per cent of a population of 230 000 are thought to be affected.

“The humanitarian situation is acute, and there is a great lack of vital services, including medical help. Norway’s contribution is to be used to set up a field hospital. This hospital will be the only one in the area that will be able to provide emergency surgery for the flood victims,” said the Minister.

Efforts are still being made to determine the extent of the disaster and the humanitarian needs, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is following the situation, and the UN’s assessment of it, closely. Further aid to the flood victims is being considered.

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