The Canadian government has announced $10 million in aid to support earthquake relief efforts in Turkey and Syria.

International Development Minister Harjit Sajjan says Ottawa is conducting a needs assessment for further help. The federal government is also considering deploying the country’s disaster assistance response team to assist with rescue operations.

More than 5,300 people have died following Monday’s earthquake, and the death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.

The powerful 7.8-magnitude quake, which was followed by strong aftershocks, has caused thousands of buildings to collapse across southeastern Turkey and parts of neighbouring Syria.

Turkish Vice President Faut Oktay says over 8,000 people have been pulled out of the rubble in his country so far, and nearly 380,000 have taken shelter in government buildings and hotels.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that Canada was ready to provide help and offered condolences to those impacted.

Disaster relief organization, ShelterBox Canada, is preparing to send aid to those in need.
The team will speak to those affected to determine the best ways to help. ShelterBox is ready to offer shelter, stoves, lights, water purification, and jackets.

ShelterBox has experience working in this region, they have supported Syrian refugees, and also responded to an earthquake in Turkey back in 2011.

свернуть