1. The Government of Japan dispatched 66 Japan Disaster Relief (JDR) Rescue Team members to New Zealand in the immediate aftermath of the 2011 Christchurch Earthquake, who have been assisting the New Zealand authorities around the clock with search and rescue activities.

2. On reassessment, and based on consultations with the Government of New Zealand, the Government of Japan has decided to dispatch a replacement JDR Rescue Team. The replacement team will consist of a total of approximately 30 members and will depart on Monday 28, and Tuesday 29 February.

3. After taking over necessary responsibilities in New Zealand, the newly dispatched team members will continue to engage in search and rescue efforts. The currently active team members will return to Japan in the near future.

Supplementary information

In addition to the 66 team members currently active at the site of the CTV building in Christchurch, five police officers and one psychiatrist have been dispatched to Christchurch as specialist members of the Japan Disaster Relief Team (JDR). These specialists are scheduled to remain in Christchurch and continue with their current activities. In addition, the Government of Japan is also considering additional assistance based on requests from the New Zealand Government.

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