On Air Night Flight | Midnight - 5:00am

More help can be offered to Sierra Leone

Phil Gawne hoping to organise fundraiser

The former chairman of the government's international development committee says there's more which can be done to help the people of Sierra Leone.

Hundreds have died in the capital Freetown following recent flooding - and thousands are homeless.

Phil Gawne has been a regular visitor to the country in recent years working with the world bank and says the disaster was exacerbated by a lack of planning and deforestation in the area.

He says the UK government is leading the aid effort with a £5 million donation - and he would like to see the Manx government get involved. On a local level, Christian Aid is setting up a support fund.

Mr Gawne adds he's now hoping to help organise a fundraising concert on the Island, but adds that the Island's financial help to Sierra Leone has been of great benefit to citizens.

More from Isle of Man News