Home Newsroom 2005 News releases (archive) 2005-08-31: Statement by the Government of Canada

Statement by the Government of Canada on the emergency situation in southern United States

Ottawa, August 31, 2005 -- The Government of Canada today responded to the unfolding crisis in the southern United States in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

“This hurricane was one of the most powerful to hit the United States in recorded history,” said Honourable Anne McLellan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. “The force of the storm -- combined with the unique geography of the region -- will require relief operations to be undertaken over a long period of time.”

Minister McLellan was in contact with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on Monday and informed him that Canada stands ready to provide assistance if needed. Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (PSEPC) is coordinating federal assistance efforts in the event that a formal request is made from the United States’ Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). No request for assistance has been received at this time.

“Following on our offer, the United States Department of Health and Human Services today asked for information on the kind of emergency assistance that our Public Health Agency could provide, and to which our officials are now responding,” added the Minister.

“In addition, we continue to work with our partners in provincial and territorial governments to identify what goods and services we could provide to our American neighbours, should they request our assistance. The United States has a long and proud history of assisting other countries in times of crisis, and we now stand ready to help them in their time of need.”

Financial donations are the most effective way for individual Canadians to assist in the relief efforts. Those wishing to donate may contact the Canadian Red Cross’s 2005 Hurricane Fund at 1-800-418-1111 or online at www.redcross.ca.

Individuals are requested not to report to affected areas to provide assistance.

For more information:

Alexander Swann
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
(613) 991-2863