ICRC increases services

 THE International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC) is committed to increasing its services in PNG, head of mission in PNG Gauthier Lefevre says.

At an agreement signing ceremony in Port Moresby last Tuesday, he said ICRC would increase its humanitarian services through reinforcing their work, expanding their geographical coverage and hiring new staff.

Lefevre said as part of the agreement, ICRC would be protected by the PNG Government.

He thanked the Government, through its line agencies, for their cooperation since they first opened their office in 2007.

“Since 2011, we have distributed basic relief supplies to 22,000 displaced people in the country, supported nine health posts and trained 239 remote community members in first aid,” Lefevre said.

“We’ve also carried out 65 visits to places of detention under the police, Correctional Services and Immigration Citizenship Services Authority.”

He said they were also working to promote humanitarian values in areas stricken by tribal warfare and violence.

 “We are also working with authorities to clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing persons from the Bougainville conflict,” he said.

“In addition, we are providing financial assistance and technical support to the staff and activities of PNG Red Cross Society.” 

He said with the agreement it would strengthen their work in the country.