Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangkok (Fides Service) - Camillian healthcare team leaves Bangkok to assist 300 Morgan people who fled their fishing village Bang Sak when the tsunami struck.
The Morgans are extremely poor and primitive fisherfolk with all the contradictions of television combined with hardship and daily life struggle.
“Dear confreres and benefactors after providing some emergency aid to tsunami victims in Thailand we are now helping a community of 300 homeless people, including many children and elderly people, whose village in Bang Sak was totally destroyed by the wave forcing them to move to higher land for safety. At present these people live in the forest in tents, a family per tent, in extremely poor conditions. The tents, food, water, clothing and portable WCs as well as emergency medical aid were provided by the government.
The people, known as the Morgans, have lived along the coast for centuries fishing for a livelihood. They have their own language although younger people and children learn to speak Thai. Despite modern technology and even television their community lifestyle has not changed. Most have had no schooling and many have no identity papers which makes it difficult to apply for state aid. This is another field in which we can help them.
The team left Bangkok on 9 January with three truckloads of medicine, medical equipment and ten volunteers (a doctor, four nurses, three psychologists a team of support). We will continue to guarantee support for these people until they can return to rebuild their village. Since we are the only Organisation present here, our aid will be long term” Paul Cherdchai Lertjitlekha, Camillian Vice Provincial concluded. (AP) (13/1/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:31; Parole:388)
