Jane Hutt – 2023 Statement on the Turkish and Syrian Earthquake

The statement made by Jane Hutt, the Welsh Minister for Social Justice, on 7 February 2023.

In the early hours of 6 February 2023, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Türkiye (Turkey) and Syria. This was followed by another earthquake soon afterwards and over 60 aftershocks.

The scale of destruction is vast and details are still emerging but it is clear that a great many have lost their lives, are injured and have been displaced.

I have today sent a message of sympathy and support to the Turkish Ambassador and extend my thoughts in particular to all of those affected including Syrian and Turkish people living in Wales who have families and friends in the earthquake zone.

Our thoughts too are with the brave search and rescue teams and people from across Wales who are already offering all manner of support. The emergency response is expected to include water and sanitation, shelter and food support as well as longer-term rehabilitation and reconstruction.