Government pledges €1 million in response to tidal wave disaster in South Asia

The Government today pledged up to €1 million to aid relief efforts in the aftermath of the tidal waves and subsequent flooding which has likely killed thousands in Southern Asia. In making the pledge Minister of State for Development Cooperation and Human Rights, Mr. Conor Lenihan T.D., said:

“Like most people watching the scenes of devastation all across South Asia on television, I am deeply shocked at the after effects of this freak tidal wave. The tragedy is still unfolding and the number of those who have perished is likely to rise as more information becomes available, and many others have had their homes and livelihoods destroyed. The needs of those who have survived will be enormous and our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by this terrible disaster.”

“This initial pledge will help in the provision of immediate assistance in the form of shelter, food, water and sanitation. We will continue to monitor the crisis closely as new information emerges and the full needs become clearer.”

The Irish assistance will be delivered through the Red Cross with which Ireland has a strong emergency assistance partnership, and which is already working on the ground. The UN system and NGOs working in the region will also be important partners in the relief efforts.