Hamilton MP backs Haiti earthquake appeal

Jan 21 2010 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

HAMILTON MP Jimmy HOOD has backed the emergency appeal by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) following the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

DEC bring together leading UK charities such as Save the Children, Oxfam and World Vision.

The UK government have announced more than £6m in aid for the victims, as well as the urgent deployment of a search and rescue team comprised of UK firefighters.

Mr Hood said: “Haiti needs help and it needs it now. The scenes on our television screens are deeply shocking.

“The most pressing need is for international search and rescue teams - including firefighters from all over Britain - to get on with their work of saving lives.

“But at the same time there is an overwhelming requirement for food, water, sanitation, shelter and medicine among the people who have been made homeless. That is why I welcome the announcement by Douglas Alexander that the Department for International Development is providing $10m (£6m) to help kickstart humanitarian relief in Haiti.

“I would strongly encourage people in Lanark & Hamilton East support the appeal by the Disasters Emergency Committee for UK charities who will be undertaking life-saving work in Haiti.

“You can make a donation by calling 0370 60 60 900 or visiting www.dec.org.uk."