Statement by Mayor David Miller: Earthquake in Chile

TORONTO, Feb. 28 /CNW/ -

    
    On behalf of all Torontonians, I extend deepest condolences and
    sympathies to Toronto's Chilean community and in particular to those with
    family and friends in the areas devastated by yesterday's earthquake.

    Toronto is proudly home to thousands of Chilean-Canadians many of whom
    fled their homeland to escape political persecution under the Pinochet
    regime and who found sanctuary in Toronto and Canada. Like so many
    others, the Chilean community is one that makes Toronto the culturally
    rich city it is today. When tragedies like this occur, it resonates
    across our city especially coming so soon after the devastation in Haiti.

    The thoughts and prayers of all Torontonians go out to all those affected
    by this disaster.

    As with the recent Haiti earthquake, I have asked Toronto's Office of
    Emergency Management to determine the best way for the city to respond
    under the terms of City Council's 2006 International Disaster Relief
    Policy in close co-operation with other orders of government and relevant
    partner organizations. We stand ready to do what we can to help.

    In the meantime, I am suggesting anyone wishing to make immediate
    donations to relief efforts do so through the Red Cross online at
    www.redcross.ca, by calling toll free 1-800-418-1111 or at any Red Cross
    office.

    Stuart Green, Deputy Director of Communications,
    Office of Mayor David Miller