For immediate release:

LOCAL MSP SUPPORTS EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey is backing an appeal to support people in Turkey and Syria who have been affected by the devastating earthquake.

The 7.8-magnitude earthquake and the various aftershocks that followed have taken the lives of thousands whilst many remain missing trapped under buildings that collapsed.

As of the February 9, more than 17,000 have died in the disaster – with that number expected to rise.

Many of those who survived are facing freezing conditions and need urgent aid.

The UK’s Disaster Emergency Committee, which brings together 15 leading charities including the British Ref Cross, Oxfam, Save the Children, Christian Aid and Islamic Relief, are raising funds to support those impacted in Turkey and Syria.

Through this, the funds will support search and rescue, medical treatment for the injured, shelter for those who have lost their homes, heating in safe spaces, blankets, warm clothes, and ensuring people have food and clean water.

The Scottish Government has donated £500,000 to the DEC appeal and the UK Government will match donations from the public pound-for-pound up to £5 million.

Local MSP Clare Haughey is also supporting the campaign.

Commenting, Ms Haughey said:

“The news of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria is beyond horrific. The death toll is continually increasing, tens of thousands remain missing, and the damage left behind across cities and towns is unimaginable.

“Many survivors have been left without shelter in freezing winter conditions and desperately need blankets, emergency shelter, food and clean water, and so I am supporting the UK’s Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) which will provide such aid to those affected.

“I know times are tough but if you are in a position to help, please consider donating to the DEC appeal.”

To donate, visit: http://dec.org.uk or text SUPPORT to 70787 to donate £10.

ENDS