$5 Million To Support Resettlement Of Displaced Persons In Sri Lanka

$5 million to support resettlement of displaced persons in Sri Lanka

Australia will contribute $5 million to support the resettlement of internally displaced people in northern Sri Lanka.

Australia has welcomed the end of the decades-long conflict in Sri Lanka: a conflict that cost tens of thousands of lives and forced so many Sri Lankans from their homes.

Australia remains concerned, however, that over 250,000 people displaced by the conflict remain in temporary camps, and supporting their resettlement will be a major focus for Australia's assistance in coming months.

The start of the monsoon season this month has increased the urgency for voluntary resettlement and other solutions that provide freedom of movement.

To assist resettlement, Australia will provide $5 million through international organisations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

This funding will include assistance for processing of documentation for internally displaced people to facilitate their return, their assistance with essential items, including food and water for travel and reintegration, and assistance to families hosting displaced people.

Australia welcomes the fact that the Government of Sri Lanka has committed itself publicly to the resettlement task.

Australia has previously provided $5.25 million through UNICEF for emergency water and sanitation and support services for children in the camps.
Mr Smith's Office: Courtney Hoogen 02 6277 7500 or 0488 244901
Departmental: (02) 6261 1555

SOURCE: AusAID