HC Deb 07 February 2001 vol 362 cc601-2W
24. Rev. Martin Smyth

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the extent of the disaster in El Salvador; and what her Department's response has been. [147662]

Clare Short

The earthquake in El Salvador measured 7.6 on the Richter scale and caused damage affecting over 1 million people, leaving at least 46,000 people in need of direct humanitarian assistance. It is estimated that some 60,000 people are now in temporary shelters. The worst affected areas are now confirmed to be La Libertad, La Paz, Cuscatlan, Sansonate, and San Vicente. Over 700 people are confirmed dead and more than 4,000 people injured. There has been extensive damage to housing and public buildings including six hospitals. Almost all primary routes are now open and electricity supply has been restored to most parts.

My Department has contributed some £1.3 million for the purchase and distribution of immediate relief assistance including shelter, water and sanitation and medical supplies to those affected by the earthquake in El Salvador. This support is being channelled through the UN, Red Cross and a number of NGOs.

The table summarises the funding allocation and the type of assistance provided.

£
Organisation Type of assistance Amount
UNOCHA UN disaster assessment and co-ordination team 35,000
PAHO Health 300,000
IFRC Shelter, food, health, water and sanitation 100,000
Oxfam Water and sanitation 300,000
CARE IDP support 138,900
Christian Aid Emergency shelter 100,000
Plan International IDP support 50,000
Save the Children UK Public health, non-food, education 200,000
SCIAF Emergency shelter 100,000
Total 1,323,900