Media Release

12 October 2005

Send NZ Fire Service to Pakistan Now – Mark

New Zealand First MP Ron Mark today called on the Prime Minister to send New Zealand Fire Service’s Urban Search and Rescue Team to Pakistan to aid those trying desperately to find people still trapped in rubble following this week’s devastating earthquake.

“We have 100-odd, highly skilled people, with millions of dollars worth of equipment, chomping at the bit to get some operational experience of this kind.

“This is an ideal opportunity for them to gain that experience and at the same time play a positive role in an international relief effort,’ said Mr Mark.

“There have been many occasions when the expertise of this team could have been used, such as after the Tsunami, but wasn’t.

“Instead they are having to sit back now, as then, and watch the heartbreaking scenes on the news reports.

“Come on Prime Minister – give the word and put them on a plane.

“We may one day be glad of the experience they gain, right here at home,” concluded Mr Mark.

ENDS

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