The Dutch contribution to EU emergency assistance to Haiti
The Netherlands dispatched 2 naval vessels to the stricken area from Curaçao. HNLMS Holland and HNLMS Pelikaan delivered relief supplies to various locations along Haiti’s southwest coast. The vessels carried additional personnel who assisted the inhabitants. Marines secured the transport of goods, army engineers performed clean-up and construction work and doctors and nurses provided medical care. A Royal Netherlands Navy hydrographic team inspected waterways and jetties for obstacles and damage.
Shelter boxes
The Dutch patrol ship and the support vessel delivered building materials and a considerable quantity of food, drink and items for personal hygiene. In addition, the 300 shelter boxes delivered ensured that small families had a roof over their heads.
Fast boats
Because of the water depth, it was not possible for the naval vessels to moor at all locations. In such cases, military personnel brought relief supplies to land using small, fast boats. These boats were also used to deliver items provided by large aid agencies. The relief supplies delivered came to a total of 450 tons.
This is a provisional description of the mission provided by the Ministry of Defence’s media centre. The Netherlands Institute of Military History (NIMH) will publish a final version at a later date.