- Conference
- 2016 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 1 January 2016
- Decision
- Carried
Composite A
NEPAL EARTHQUAKE
The Nepal Himalayan earthquake struck on the morning of 25th April 2015 at 11.56, killing more than 7,000 people. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake, the worst for 81 years.
The earthquake triggered an avalanche on Mount Everest, killing at least 19 people, making it the deadliest day on the mountain in history. It triggered another huge avalanche in Langtang valley, where 250 are now missing. Centuries-old buildings were destroyed.
It is estimated that over 10 million people have now been injured and badly affected. Hospitals are unable to cope with the numbers of people in need of medical attention.
Nepal is already one of the poorest countries in the world. Around 80% of the population live in rural areas and depend on subsistence farming for their livelihoods.
Conference, the situation is particularly critical in rural areas near the epicentre. Some 90% of the people have lost their homes and livestock, and have no way of getting food. With so many left homeless, in deep shock and with no access to basic care it’s an anxious and uncertain time for so many people.
The immediate concern is to ensure communities have shelter, fresh water and urgent medical care. Nepal’s government declared three days of mourning after the earthquake.
Tired and hungry survivors of the deadly Nepal earthquake have had little respite since the earthquake struck with such devastation.
Hundreds of thousands of people continue to sleep outdoors, too scared to return to their shattered homes for fear of aftershocks. In response, the Nepal Earthquake Appeal was launched. In response, the Nepal Earthquake Appeal was launched.
As well as the threat of subsequent earthquakes and any impact on already fragile land and infrastructure there is a heightened risk of diseases like cholera and diarrhoeal infections which could lead to further suffering and loss of life.
Conference, when disasters strikes, it’s the poorest who feel the impact worst. With little to fall back on, when people’s health, homes or livelihoods are damaged, the road to recovery can be very long.
Helping people rebuild their lives is going to be a major, long-term endeavour.
Conference therefore calls on the NBMC to:
1) Discuss with the Black NEC Representatives as to how we can make contact with our sister unions in Nepal and offer further assistance via UNISON’s International Committee.
2) Discuss with the Black NEC Representatives regarding a further recommendation for a donation from UNISON, as the situation will require continued financial assistance.
3) Keep members updated on the situation and advise how they and their branches can offer support and assistance.
4) Initiating discussion via the NEC Black members’ representatives that seek to explore the practicality and possibility of making a donation towards helping those affected.
5) And monitoring the situation via our International Committee to assess the potential call for any further support.
Submitted by
Greater London Region
National Black Members’ Committee