June 26, 2010 -- President James Michel has visited the children injured in the Praslin bus accident, who are receiving treatment at Victoria hospital this morning.

The President was accompanied by Minister for Health Dr. Erna Athanasius, Minister for Home Affairs, Environment, and Transport Joël Morgan, and Minister for Education, Employment and Human Resources Macsuzy Mondon.

"This accident shocked the entire nation. It shocked Praslin principally, which has a very close community. We are a small country and when an accident happens involving children it touches us all. I followed the events  closely from the time the accident happened. I came to see how the children are doing, and to wish them a swift recovery," said President Michel.

The President said that the staff of Baie Ste Anne Praslin hospital had responded in a professional manner to the accident, and showed good teamwork and cooperation.

"I also want to commend the doctors and staff of Victoria hospital, they gave exemplary treatment to the children and looked after them very well. They were successful in giving the necessary support and reassurance. I thank all those from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education,  and Praslin's community leaders, for the excellent coordination in the rescue operation."

The President also visited the blood donation unit of Victoria hospital to speak to those who came to give blood, following an appeal on national television last night. Groups of young people from the JJ Spirit Foundation, the President's Award Scheme and the Young Leaders Programme, as well as many other people from various districts on Mahé came to donate blood last night and this morning.

"There has been a very encouraging response particularly from young people, who have come to give blood. This shows how important it is to give blood, to be able to cater for serious accidents. I thank the young people, who have done this noble gesture, helping to save lives."

The First Lady, Mrs. Nathalie Michel visited the injured children with the staff of the Children's Homes this afternoon.