OTTAWA — Canada is providing essential lifesaving assistance to people in southern Ecuador affected by drought, announced the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation. Canada's assistance will help deliver drinking water and water for farming and livestock.
"Canada's support will help Ecuadorians most in need due to the drought in southern Ecuador," said Minister Fantino. "Our government is committed to the quick and effective delivery of humanitarian assistance because Canada is a compassionate neighbour. This assistance is an expression of Canada's generosity."
Ecuador's southern region has gone for four months without rain. The province of Loja has been the most affected by the drought, where 72 percent-below-normal rainfall levels since February have created a severe water shortage. Considering that the economy in the affected regions rely on agriculture and livestock, the shortage of rain has caused extensive losses to thousands of families.
With Canada's assistance, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies will support the Ecuadorian Red Cross Society to provide food, re-establish livelihoods, and improve access to safe and clean water.
This assistance has been provided through Canada's Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund, a project managed by the Canadian Red Cross Society. For more details on this emergency operation supported by Canada, refer to Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF);—Ecuador: Drought (PDF, 722.21 KB, 13 pages).
Economic Action Plan 2013 reaffirms Canada's commitment to humanitarian work, such as this support for the people of Ecuador. The new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will maintain the mandate of poverty alleviation and the ability to respond to humanitarian crises.
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For more information, media should contact:
Daniel Bezalel Richardsen
Press Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: danielbezalel.richardsen@acdi-cida.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
Email: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
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