Statement by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Member of Parliament for Cambridge-North Dumfries, regarding the Government’s plans to help the victims of the severe drought in East Africa.

“Our government, the residents of Cambridge-North Dumfries and all Canadians, are deeply saddened by the extent of suffering in East Africa.

“Canada is a world leader in foreign aid. We have doubled our aid to Africa and are one of the first nations to respond to this crisis.

“We have an unwavering history of generosity and willingness to help those in need. 

“These values are shared by our Government and that is why, we are increasing our financial assistance by $50 million and establishing the East Africa Drought Relief Fund.

“For every dollar an individual Canadian donates over a 10-week period to a registered Canadian charity responding to the drought in East Africa, the Government will contribute an equivalent amount to the East Africa Drought Relief Fund.

“Our Government will continue to take action to help those who are suffering in East Africa”, said Minister    Goodyear.

Background:
The Canadian Government, through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), is increasing its financial contribution by $50 million. This is in addition to the $22.35 million provided by CIDA earlier this year for humanitarian assistance in the region.

For every dollar an individual Canadian donates over a 10-week period (retroactive to July 6, 2011, and ending September 16, 2011) to a registered Canadian charity responding to the drought in East Africa, the Government will contribute an equivalent amount to the East Africa Drought Relief Fund.