Media release

8 May 2009

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Caritas aid worker killed in Sri Lanka No Fire Zone

Caritas Australia is mourning the loss of a local staff member killed in a shell attack this morning at Mullivaikal, Vanni in a No Fire Zone.

“The Caritas confederacy was saddened to hear of the tragic death of one of our own staff this morning, a driver assisting the relief effort in Vanni”, said Caritas Australia’s CEO Jack de Groot.

“This tragic death adds to the growing number of innocent victims caught in the conflict”, said Caritas Australia CEO Jack de Groot.

“We welcome the commitment today of $10 million from the Australian Government to assist the victims of this brutal conflict.

“The continuing conflict and consequent flood of refugees is stretching the Caritas response as an estimated 190,000 are now seeking refuge from the conflict in government controlled camps.

“Our partners have been instrumental in enduring these conditions to assist over 52,000 people with food and clean water and distributing hygiene and sanitation kits in the north of Sri Lanka.

“Thirty five religious Sisters have are also delivering counselling services to the children, women and men who have witnessed unspeakable atrocities and acts of violence. They are offering psychological support and assisting with reunification of families, many who have been separated when fleeing the fighting.

“Currently US$1.30 per day per person is the cost of delivering our assistance. When we consider the number of victims, continued generosity on behalf of the Australian community is necessary and urgent.

“However our aid is merely bandages on the wounds in Sri Lanka. The international community must bring the parties to the negotiating table. An urgent ceasefire is desperately needed. Without this political will and action, many more innocent lives will be lost and destroyed”, said Mr de Groot.

To support the Caritas Australia Sri Lanka Humanitarian Crisis Appeal donate online or call 1800 024 413.

More information Tim O’Connor 02) 8306 3400 or 0417 284 831