Minister praises Haiti rescuers

GREATER Manchester fire-fighters who helped victims of the Haiti earthquake last night told the Government of their experiences.

The team — which included Royton fire-fighter Peter Stevenson and Chadderton-based Martin Foran — flew to the capital Port au Prince to help with the rescue mission in January.

Fire Minister Shahid Malik said: “I have been genuinely impressed with the stories I have heard about the UK urban search-and-rescue crews who operated in such difficult circumstances, and the tireless work they undertook is a testament to both their professionalism and selflessness. I would like to thank not only those who went to Haiti but also those who provided critical support from the UK to enable their deployment. The practical experience that the USAR crews will take away from this operation will contribute to their professional skills and benefit the UK if they are needed.”

The UK search-and-rescue team in Haiti saved the lives of four people — including a two-year-old girl who had been trapped for three days — and provided medical assistance to many others.

The team had to cope with extreme circumstances of devastation and chaos, with desperation and crime fuelling a volatile situation and strong aftershocks making rescue efforts all the more difficult.

They searched areas greater than 64 square miles and also went to two critical areas outside of Port au Prince (Leogane and Petite Guave).

Last month the Prime Minister’s wife Sarah Brown hosted a tea for the fire-fighters and doctors to thank them for their contribution.

A parliamentary motion has also put down in the Commons congratulating the team on its efforts as part of the UK International Search and Rescue team (UK ISAR).