The earthquake in Sichuan on 12 May has killed and injured thousands of our fellow countrymen, destroyed numerous homes and buildings, and left tens of thousands homeless and in need of help. We are all shocked and saddened by this tragedy. Heroic efforts are continuing on all fronts to re-establish transportation and communication links with the hardest hit areas, to rescue more victims buried under the rubble, to care for the injured, and to tend to the deceased.
A volunteer team of civil servants has arrived Sichuan early this morning to help with the rescue work. Another reinforcement team will depart for Sichuan later today. In addition, with the approval of the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council yesterday, the Government has donated HK$300 million to the Disaster Relief Headquarters of the Central People's Government and has earmarked another HK$50 million for applications from major relief organizations for grants for providing emergency relief to earthquake victims. Donations are also pouring in from all quarters of the community.
But much more is needed in view of the scale of the natural disaster and the enormity of the relief and restoration work involved. I believe I am echoing the actions and thoughts of many of you in appealing for your donations to the various relief organizations that are raising funds to help the victims of the earthquake.
Let us do what we can. And let us pray for the safety of the victims.
