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Proposal to pledge $8M to aid earthquake victims approved
The Disaster Relief Fund Advisory Committee today (Tuesday) approved in principle a pledge of $8 million to fund relief projects to assist earthquake victims in Lijiang and Zhongdian areas in Yunnan, China.
In making the decision, the Committee has been greatly concerned about the severity of the earthquake, the devastation that resulted and the harsh conditions which the victims have to face.
A govemment spokesman explained that the pledge was an indication of the willingness of the Committee to approve grants for this purpose.
"The actual funds to be allocated will depend on the applications the Committee receives from relief organisations with sound track records and on their proposed plans for relief work in the affected area," the spokesman said.
"To ensure that the grants will be used for the purpose designated, the Hong Kong Government will as usual require relief organisations in receipt of a grant to submit an evaluation report and an audited account on the use of the fund."
So far, the Advisory Committee Secretariat has received an application from the Hong Kong Red Cross for a grant of $4.1 million for immediate emergency relief by the Red Cross Society of China.
This application is now being processed. Four other relief agencies have expressed an interest in making applications.
The spokesman pointed out that public donations and appropriations from general revenue were the main sources of the fund.
"Members of the public are welcome to donate to the fund for general relief purposes," he said.
Further enquiries can be made to the Secretary to the Disaster Relief Fund Advisory Committee in Room 553, East Wing, Central Government Offices or on 2810 3503.
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