JOURNALIST:
Now Prime Minister, you have had a chance to talk to your compatriot
over in Papua New Guinea, Mr Skate. Can you tell us, having seen
the devastation, what his opinion of it is?
PRIME MINISTER:
Well he's appalled. I spoke to him yesterday and he, of course,
is absolutely devastated and overcome by this calamity that has
hit his country. I am pleased to say that the mobile hospital team
from Australia is now in place in the worst affected area. I was
informed a few moments ago that the roads into that area are now
open so that it is possible to get assistance in and to look after
the survivors more effectively. The latest indications are that
the death toll could be 1000 or more. Given the chaos in a tragic
situation like this, it's very hard to make an accurate count.
I know that all Australians will feel for the people of Papua New
Guinea in this most appalling natural disaster. As a country, as
a close friend and neighbour and helper we will do all we can to
help the very unfortunate people of this country whose living standard
is low and they now have visited upon them this terrible, personal
disaster.
JOURNALIST:
And our defence forces, what role will they play.....
PRIME MINISTER:
well we already have three C130's in the country. Another
one is on the way and our defence personnel, as always, have responded
quickly and effectively, quite magnificently. And on behalf of the
Australian people I congratulate the ADF on their speedy response
and the effective humanitarian way in which they're rendering
assistance to these very unfortunate people.
JOURNALIST:
With the roads reopening would you expect that relief to get through
virtually unimpeded or mostly.......
PRIME MINISTER:
Well the information I have is that with the roads being opened
it's easier to get help in and it's easier to carry the
injured and maimed people, many of whom have very severe fractures,
out of the area and perhaps treat them in hospitals elsewhere in
the country.
JOURNALIST:
And Mr Skate's response to Australia offering.....
PRIME MINISTER:
Well yesterday when I spoke to him, Mr Skate was very grateful
for the speedyr Skate was very grateful
for the speedy way in which Australia had responded and I know that
I'll be speaking to him again in the next couple of days. We
are very keen to help in whatever practical way possible.
[ENDS]