Minister of State Peter Power announces emergency funding of almost €550,000 to support those recently displaced by conflict in Pakistan

The Government has authorised emergency funding of almost €550,000 to support those forced to flee from the North-West Frontier Province of Pakistan, where the Pakistani Government has launched a military offensive against local Taliban and other militants operating in the area.

To date, almost two million people have been displaced as a result of the conflict.

The funding is being channelled through the United Nations and Ireland’s NGO partners, including Trócaire and Concern, who are working to provide emergency support to those displaced. The money will be used to provide much-needed food, plastic sheeting, water and sanitation.

Announcing the funding, Minister of State for Overseas Development, Mr. Peter Power said:

"This is a devastating crisis which in a short space of time has seen approximately two million people uprooted from their homes, many of them women and children who are particularly vulnerable in the current situation.

"Such large-scale displacement clearly presents major challenges to the Government of Pakistan and to the humanitarian community. Many who fled conflict areas left with literally nothing and are urgently in need of support."

In addition to emergency funding, a special shipment of Irish Aid relief supplies – specifically kitchen sets and mosquito nets – has also been dispatched to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Pakistan.

The emergency funding of €549,599 is being provided to four partners as follows:

Ends+++

29^{th June 2009}

Press Office

For further information or to arrange an interview with Minister of State for Overseas Development, Peter Power, please contact Fionnuala Quinlan, press officer, Irish Aid on 01-4082653 or 087-9099975