Government Special Envoy departs for Tsunami affected region

The Government's Special Envoy for the Tsunami disaster Mr. Chris Flood will depart tomorrow on his first visit to the affected region.

Mr. Flood is to report on the status of the recovery effort and on the utilisation of Irish Government funds allocated in response to the tsunami disaster. He will be presenting bi-monthly reports on progress over the next six months to both the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dermot Ahern TD and Minister of State for Development Cooperation and Human Rights, Mr. Conor Lenihan TD.

Speaking before Mr. Flood's departure, Minister Lenihan said;

“From the outset of this human disaster the Government has been determined to ensure that Ireland's role in relieving the suffering and rebuilding this region would continue long after the cameras left. Chris Flood's visit is a crucial part of that follow up.”

“A huge volume of Irish funds - over €75 million - both from the Government and from public donations, has been committed to assisting this region. This has been an extraordinary expression of public sympathy and generosity.  What is critical now is that we ensure resources are being utilised correctly and that those who are in real need of help in rebuilding their lives, receive support.”

Mr. Flood will travel to Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Mr Flood will be accompanied by a specialist from Development Cooperation Ireland to provide additional technical assistance.

Speaking before leaving, Mr. Flood said;

“I am looking forward to my first visit to the region and to seeing at first hand the impact of the disaster and meeting those who have been working so tirelessly to respond to the needs of the people.  I look forward to hearing reports from the UN, EU, the Irish agencies and of course our own Development Cooperation Ireland personnel.”

Mr. Chris Flood is a former Minister of State and is currently Chairman of the Advisory Board for Development Cooperation Ireland.

ENDS+++
16th February 2005
Press Office