Brussels, 08/09/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 5 September, the European Commission adopted a decision to fast-track funding of €2 million to provide relief for victims of Tropical Storm Hanna in Haiti.
The country, already facing serious problems following the two previous Atlantic storms (Fay and Gustav) has been badly hit by Hanna, with large-scale flooding, particularly in the north. First reports from the Commission humanitarian expert sent to Haiti to assess needs after Hurricane Gustav indicate that “virtually every department in the country has been heavily affected by Fay, Gustav or Hanna. The logistical challenge is huge and around the city of Gonaives alone, up to 70,000 people are in 'shelters' without proper assistance”. The funds will be used to meet the vital needs of the most vulnerable people in the crisis zone: food, clean water, shelter, basic household equipment and medical care. This funding is in addition to the €2 million announced on 1 September after Hurricane Gustav. (O.L./transl.rt)