Jane Hutt, Minister for Social Justice
Following the devastating earthquakes that recently shook Türkiye and Syria, the Welsh Government has made a £300,000 donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Appeal.
Over 35,000 people are reported to have been killed since the first powerful 7.8 magnitude quake struck in the early hours of Monday 6 February, with approximately 100,000 injured. Survivors have since been left without shelter in freezing winter conditions.
The Welsh Government funds the Disasters Emergency Committee Cymru to help coordinate fundraising efforts in Wales, and we are pleased to contribute to the DEC Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Appeal. The Disasters Emergency Committee brings together leading organisations in the UK to raise funds for overseas emergencies, coordinating an effective humanitarian response and getting aid quickly to people who need it in the most cost-effective manner possible. Immediate priorities include access to food and clean water as well as medical treatment and shelter. The DEC appeal will also raise money to go towards longer-term rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The scale of this destruction cannot be underestimated and it’s important to acknowledge the brave search and rescue teams who have tirelessly searched through the rubble for survivors, including firefighters from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service who are part of a team of 77 UK International Search and Rescue experts providing specialist skills and equipment to help locate and rescue survivors.
We understand the desire in Wales to do all that we can to help people affected by the earthquakes including those with family and friends in Türkiye and Syria. We would encourage anyone who is able to help to consider making a financial donation to the DEC and support those affected in their communities.
For further information about the appeal and how to donate, please follow this link: DEC Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Appeal