 Tokyo government to make original support for eruption-hit Miyake islanders The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has decided to extend financial support to residents of Miyakejima-Island who need to build or repair homes destroyed by the 2000 volcanic eruption. The decision, if approved by the December session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, will give up to 1.5 million yen to households in need. The two-million yen measure is good news for 1,900 households now preparing to return to the island. The Japanese Communist Party in the metropolitan assembly has repeatedly called for the enactment of public assistance to the islanders. Roofs and walls of most houses in Miyakejima were destroyed by toxic gas, volcanic ash fall, and mud flows that require at least several million yen to repair each house. The central government has already decided to pay up to three million yen to help each household cover the costs for rebuilding houses. Welcoming the new step of the Tokyo government, Kimura Yoji, JCP Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly Members' Group chair, stated, "Given the many difficulties that may arise after Miyakejima residents' return, the JCP will make further efforts to help in their recovery." (end) |