This evening at the European Council in Brussels, Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced an extra contribution to efforts to fight Ebola. The Prime Minister said that the Netherlands would purchase relief supplies worth €5 million, for use in the countries most affected: Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea.
‘It is crucial,’ the Prime Minister said, ‘that the international community make every effort it can. The Netherlands is among those taking the lead. I call on other countries to shoulder their responsibility to contain this terrible disease and prevent its further spread.’
The €5 million will be used to purchase field hospitals, ambulances, isolation suits, medical supplies and vehicles. ‘There is a growing need for these items, so the Netherlands has chosen to provide aid in this form,’ explained development minister, Lilianne Ploumen. This contribution will bring the government’s support for these countries to a total of €35.1 million.
The intention is to add the relief supplies to the large transport of emergency items provided by other countries and aid organisations, which the Joint Support Ship Karel Doorman will take to the region. The EU and the World Health Organization will determine whether this cargo meets the most urgent needs. The Karel Doorman is expected to sail in early November.