Western Australia supports Operation Baghdad Assist

13/4/03
Western Australia is contributing to a national effort to provide vital medical supplies to Iraq, Health Minister Bob Kucera said today.
Medical supplies such as burns kits, oral analgesics, cots, stretchers, beds, crutches and surgical equipment from Royal Perth Hospital will be loaded onto a plane stopping at Pearce Airbase at approximately 4.30pm this afternoon.
"We are pleased to be playing our part in a humanitarian contribution to the people of Iraq," Mr Kucera said.
"It is hoped that assistance from countries like Australia will not only relieve the strain on Iraq's medical system but reduce the level of human suffering being experienced by those injured in the war."
Mr Kucera said the contribution being made by WA would not put local services at risk.
He paid tribute to local staff who had worked speedily to ensure that WA could contribute following a request from the Commonwealth Government yesterday afternoon.
Minister's office: 9213 7000