Nova Scotia Offers Support to Louisiana

The province of Nova Scotia has offered its support and assistance to the people of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.

Ernest Fage, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act, sent letters to governors of the four states today, Aug. 31, offering Nova Scotia's help with their recovery efforts following Hurricane Katrina. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, governor of Louisiana; Haley Barbour, governor of Mississippi; Bob Riley, governor of Alabama; and Jeb Bush, governor of Florida, each received an offer of assistance from the province.

"Nova Scotians have a tradition of reaching out to help in times of need. We understand the challenges and difficulties ahead and would like to help in any way we can," Mr. Fage said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and friends."

The devastation caused by Katrina has left much of the southern U.S. in a state of devastation, reminding Nova Scotians of the impact of Hurricane Juan, a much weaker storm which affected the province only two years ago.

Any requests for assistance from the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, or Florida will be co-ordinated through Emergency Measures Organization Nova Scotia.