Emergency Action by the Red Cross in East Timor

Over IR£5 million is needed to bring immediate aid to people sheltering in the mountains without food or water and to tens of thousands of refugees who have sought safety in neighbouring countries. And the Irish Red Cross Society has also been asked to send experienced personnel to assist in the humanitarian operation.

It is estimated that between 150,000 and 200,000 people need food and shelter in West Timor alone, while thousands of others are living rough in islands around East Timor and in the mountains in East Timor itself. In the city of Dare, 10km outside Dili, at least 90,000 people are living in appalling conditions. Food and water are essential now to keep these people alive.

The Red Cross is the only organisation with a presence in both East and West Timor and is working with other agencies to get food and medical supplies to the most affected areas.

The Irish Red Cross Society has launched an appeal to get cash to the stricken area as quickly as possible. Please send donations by cheque or postal order to the Irish Red Cross Society East Timor Appeal Fund, 16 Merrion Square Dublin 2. Or by bank giro to Bank of Ireland, 2 College Green, Dublin 2. Account No: 16305917 Sort Code:90-00-17 or to Allied Irish Bank, 1 - 3, Lwr Baggot Street, Dublin 2. Account No: 33627078 Sort Code: 93-10-12.

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