August 22, 2010
Ottawa (Ontario) - The Honourable John Baird, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, on behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today announced that the Government of Canada has established a Pakistan Floods Relief Fund.
"Canadians have shown that they are always ready to help those in need," said Minister Baird. "In order to support their generosity, our Government will match their contributions dollar for dollar."
For every eligible donation by individual Canadians to Canadian registered charities, Canada will contribute an equivalent amount to the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund. The equivalent contribution will support continuing humanitarian assistance, early recovery, and reconstruction in Pakistan through projects undertaken by the many organizations and non-governmental organizations responding to the floods in Pakistan.
The Government of Canada will use the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund to provide assistance through Canadian and international humanitarian and development organizations, according to established channels and procedures. The Pakistan Floods Relief Fund is separate from the funds raised by charities and will be administered separately by the Government of Canada.
"The Government of Canada will contribute an equivalent amount to the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund for every eligible donation by individual Canadians to Canadian registered charities between August 2 and September 12," said Minister Oda. "This fund will provide effective and accountable financial support to experienced Canadian and international humanitarian and development partner organizations working on humanitarian assistance, early recovery, and reconstruction efforts in the affected areas."
The flooding situation in Pakistan continues to worsen. The devastation left by the floods is now compounded by health risks, food shortages, the destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of people.
On Saturday, August 14, the Government of Canada pledged an increase to up to $33 million in its response to floods in Pakistan. The Pakistan Floods Relief Fund announced today represents additional funds. With this commitment, the Government of Canada is encouraging Canadians to continue to do their part.
Detailed information on the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund is available on CIDA's website.
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Information:
Michael Bailey
Director of Parliamentary Affairs
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Jessica Fletcher
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
