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International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Programme Coordinator Mahfoud Bessah has just returned from the first assessment mission to the border, and witnessed the emotional scene of a man from the Philippines, fleeing the unrest in Libya, calling his sister in Dublin to tell her he was well. “It was wonderful; tears of joy at 3am on that small border crossing,” he said. There are no reports of serious injuries among the migrants/returnees but there have been 250 consultations at the local first aid post, where the Red Crescent is present. “Most arrivals are in reasonably good shape, although stressed and tired,” said Bessah. “Many have walked long distances as the prices of taxi transport to the border has tripled as drivers take advantage of the demand. We also heard that oil companies have hired buses to take their workers to the border.” The principal role of the 50 active Red Crescent volunteers is providing sandwiches and water (gathered from the local community) to new arrivals, helping them with bags and bringing them to the reception. “Our volunteers are also helping those who cannot read or write to fill in forms, and carrying their bags to the reception areas.” Red Crescent medical staff are also providing first aid and primary healthcare at a medical post on the border. Bessah noted that the community solidarity was amply evident. “Local people are gathering water and food, and passing it on to the Red Crescent to distribute. There’s a very strong spirit of humanity on display”. Posted February 25, 2011 |
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