The Macao Government today sent a third medical team which comprised 15 medical professionals to Dujiangyan, Sichuan, to provide supporting works.

The Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Mr Chu Sai On, saw them off at the airport, and encouraged them to do their best to help the people.

Mr Chu told the press that the SAR Government is in close contact with the Sichuan Provincial Government to arrange reconstruction works, in particular with projects to be supported by the Macao Government, over the next five years.

He said the Government would soon announce the names of members appointed to the ad hoc group and the total outlay to be used in these projects.

The third medical team, of 11 doctors and four nurses, were sent to Dujiangyan, one of the most seriously affected disaster area rocked by the catastrophic earthquake on 12 May. It is expected to stay there for two weeks.

Mr Chui said the Government would continue to send medical teams to Sichuan, according to their requests.

The Government has sent medical teams on 23 May and 3 June, respectively to help look after the victims.