Irish Red Cross sends further €100,000 in emergency aid to Haiti

Yesterday, the Organisation sent an initial €25,000 to Haiti. However due to a very positive response from the Irish public and a steady stream of donations to its emergency appeal it is now in a position to send a further €100,000 to assist those affected by the disaster.

The appeal, which was launched on Wednesday in the wake of the disaster, has received a very encouraging response from the public and media alike, with many people giving what they can to help those most vulnerable.

Noel Wardick, Head of the International Department of the Irish Red Cross stated, "Thanks to the people of Ireland we have been seeing a continuous stream of donations since the launch of the Haiti Appeal, and in the past 48 hours have received enough funds to be able to send a further €100,000 to Haiti."

Donations to the emergency appeal can be made online at www.redcross.ie and by calling 1850 50 70 70.

As the Red Cross response develops, the Irish Red Cross remains in contact with its partners in Haiti and internationally in order to ensure that the most urgent needs of survivors are met.

"Coordination with our colleagues is the key to ensuring a quick and efficient response to this tragedy. Right now the main priorities are search and rescue, emergency medical care and shelter, and providing clean water to those who need it most," explained Noel Wardick.

Background

• The earthquake struck on Tuesday (12 Jan) at 12:00 local time, measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale shook the capital of Port-au-Prince and other areas of the country, with Haiti's West Province (pop. 2.2m) most affected.

Notes to Editor

The Irish Red Cross can provide spokesperson/s on the Haitian earthquake:

• Noel Wardick, Head of the International Department, Irish Red Cross (Based in Ireland)
• Paul Conneally, (Irish) Head of External Communications, IFRC, is currently travelling to Haiti and will be available for interview upon arrival.
• Declan O'Sullivan, Acting Secretary General, Irish Red Cross (Based in Ireland)

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 01 642 4612 or alternatively Mr. David Curtin on 086 - 283 2123 to arrange an interview.