31/12/04
The State Government will offer whatever assistance is necessary to ensure that medical supplies and drugs donated by Western Australian doctors reach the sick and injured in the tsunami disaster zones.
Health Minister Jim McGinty said he was heartened by the Australian Medical Association’s appeal to doctors to donate surplus drugs and supplies.
“This is a disaster the likes of which we have never seen and we all have an obligation to help those affected in whatever way we can to relieve some of the suffering,” Mr McGinty said.
The Minister said the Government would assist with transport arrangements and freight costs for the supplies.
The WA Government had also offered to care for badly injured victims in the State’s public hospitals.
“We have the expertise and the skills available here in WA and we are right on the doorstep of this tragedy so we have a responsibility to help,”
Mr McGinty said.
A team of WA doctors and nurses is already in the disaster zone, helping to treat victims and avert the spread of disease.
Minister's office: 9220 5000
