APPENDIX 3
Further memorandum submitted by 4RS (an
International NGO working in Northern Iraq)
The concerns raised in our letter to the committee
still pertain. Today I had discussions with the Ministry in Suleimania
which deals with Aid Agencies. They are very concerned that at
present, allocations for humanitarian aid seems to be wholly channelled
through the United Nations and that it is largely to be positioned
in outlying regions such as Syria, Turkey and Iran. There is a
chronic shortage of emergency facilities in Northern Iraq, despite
the preparations made on paper.
There is a growing concern that should there
be a population movement towards the neighbouring borders, those
borders would close or that processing would take some time. The
question arises as to how the authorities and the few NGOs here
would cope. It is appreciated that there would be swift military
intervention if needed. It is the interim period of uncertainty
and fear which is causing concern.
The market is very unstable at present and the
local authorities are saying that they are short of real cash
to maintain essential services. Public awareness of coping strategies
have not even begun to be addressed.
There is also a fear of invasion and occupancy
from outside the region and this is very much focusing the minds
of the administration here. Rumours are dangerously rife and a
movement could happen at any time. In addition, threats are growing
against people from the extremists and foreign NGOs have had to
double up on security.
So far as 4RS is concerned, it is the total
absence of practical preparedness which is paramount. There is
no real ambulance service and the medical services are threadbare.
Most international personnel are on the point
of departure, which is making people and the economic market very
nervous.
I am passing this on as we are aware that the
debate on humanitarian issues during and post conflict in Iraq
continues. We also believe that with concrete assistance, the
local administrations and NGOs in Northern Iraq would be able
to put some facilities, like water and sanitation etc. in place
but that time is short. The United Nations SCR986 presence continues
to be thinned and is worrying. We are very concerned about the
dangers to children, the elderly, disabled and unsupported women,
especially in the poverty stricken townships near the GOI areas.
Irene Massey
Programme Director, 4RS, Northern Iraq
26 February 2002
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