New Zealander and Save the Children UK Media Officer, Brendan Paddy, who is returning to northern Iraq at the end of this week, says Save the Children staff in northern Iraq are preparing for a massive influx of displaced Iraqis from the centre and south of Iraq.

“We’re predicting up to 3 million Iraqis will be driven from their homes, with thousands of children at risk of becoming separated from their families. The borders with Iran and Turkey are some of the most heavily mined areas in the world, “ said Brendan Paddy today, as he prepares to leave for northern Iraq.

In response to the water crisis in Basra, where 2 million Iraqis face a surge of disease from drinking dirty water caused by power cuts, Brendan reports that 24 Save the Children staff will move to the area as soon as safe access is possible, to provide life-saving supplies of water, food, health care and shelter.

Save the Children New Zealand Executive Director John Bowis said today: “The Iraqi population –half of whom are children under 15 - are already suffering after years of conflict, tyranny and international sanctions, and now, even more children’s lives are at risk. Children will be killed and maimed and thousands, perhaps millions, will suffer from hunger, disease and displacement.

“New Zealanders have expressed their dismay and disapproval of a new war in Iraq. We’re asking New Zealanders to act on these feelings by contributing to our emergency appeal for Iraqi children.

“Save the Children is one of the largest and most experienced Non-Governmental Organisations in Iraq, having worked in the country since 1991. We have well-established networks which mean that aid can be delivered effectively.

“As soon as safe access into Iraq is possible, Save the Children staff will deliver emergency supplies of food, water, medicine, shelter and clothing to children who need it most.

“But we need the support of New Zealanders to help the innocent children of Iraq. Please act now by calling our freephone donation number 0800 167 168 or donate online at www.savethechildren.org.nz

Donate online today! For more information, contact Save the Children on 04 385 6847 or email info@scnz.org.nz