Irish Red Cross Chairman David Andrews, thanks Irish people for support

Speaking following a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador to Ireland, Mr Hossein Mirfakhar, David Andrews said he was very pleased that so many Irish people were mindful of the suffering of the people of Bam at this time.

"I would like to thank the Irish people, who, in spite of it being a holiday time have shown great interest in the plight of the Iranian people at this time and have responded with great generosity," said David Andrews.

The Irish Red Cross Chairman, earlier attended a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador to Ireland, Mr Mirfakhar at his invitation. Mr Andrews expressed his condolences to Mr Mirfakhar on behalf of the Irish Red Cross, and he again thanked Mr Mirfakhar for his assistance in securing the release of Aidan Leahy earlier this week, following his kidnapping ordeal.

The Irish Red Cross is continuing to accept donations at its head office in 16 Merrion Square, Dublin 2 and by credit card online at www.redcross.ie and by CallSave to 1850 50 70 70.

Donations will be sent through the International Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement to help the most needy in Bam, where up to 70,000 people have been made homeless and are at risk from freezing night temperatures, rain and snow. To date 90,000 family tents, 153,000 blankets, and 30.000 floor mats as well food, water and medical aid have been supplied by the International Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement.

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