Donations to Irish Red Cross top 1 million euro

The funds, which have come from all over the country include donations from individuals, local communities, clubs and the corporate sector, have been used to provide essential supplies and deploy the necessary skills to Haiti.

Mr Noel Wardick said that the Red Cross is currently managing a number of field hospital each catering for up to 200 patients a day as well as distributing supplies.

"We have distributed over 1 million litres of water and tonnes of food and we are currently working on getting the infrastructure up and running again. For example it is vital that we get water, sanitation and sewage systems running again if we are to prevent the spread of disease," he said.

The Irish Red Cross has also deployed two experts to Port-au-Prince. Joe Lowry, an Irishman, is now in Haiti and will act as communications Manager for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), ensuring that there is a constant flow of accurate information from towns and villages affected by the earthquake. Will Rogers manages beneficiary communications in the wake of the disaster.

"While we are delighted with the great response to our appeal, we still need more money to help the Haiti rebuild their homes,. Their businesses and their livelihoods," Noel said.

How you can help

Donations are being accepted online or by calling 1850 50 70 70.

Cheque and postal orders should be marked for the relevant appeal and made payable to:
Irish Red Cross,
16 Merrion Square,
Dublin 2.

For media enquiries please contact Ms. Pia Ward on 087 – 7433 275 or alternatively Mr. David Curtin on 086- 283 2123 to arrange an interview.