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Bangladesh Urgently Needs Emergency Necessities of LifeDHAKA, BANGLADESH – Today, the Honourable Jim Karygiannis, Member of Parliament for Scarborough- Agincourt, met with the Adviser/Minister of Food and Disaster Management of Bangladesh, Mr. Tapan Chowdhury. “Minister Chowdhury said Bangladesh needs 700 thousand tons of rice; clean drinking water, including the ability to desalinate water; and, long-term shelter.” said Mr. Karygiannis. “Warm clothing is also needed. Winter is fast approaching.” On November 15, 2007, Cyclone Sidr, a Category 4 Cyclone, cut a destructive swath through Bangladesh. In its wake, 3,000 people died; some 600,000 people were displaced; houses and infrastructure were destroyed; and, the rice crop was all but wiped out. “Canadian aid workers are helping to alleviate the tremendous suffering of the survivors of this calamity.” Mr. Karygiannis commented. “The international community must do more to help the people of Bangladesh.” The Canadian government has pledged $3 million in immediate humanitarian aid. |