The Government today pledged €500,000 towards the massive relief effort in cyclone-devastated Bangladesh.
Michael Kitt, Minister of State for Overseas Development, has earmarked the donation through the Government's Irish Aid fund for developing countries.
"Cyclone Sidr has caused widespread devastation in Bangladesh," he said.
"Irish Aid funding will help meet the immediate needs of those worst affected, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods."
Helicopters were today airlifting food to hungry survivors as rescuers struggled to reach remote areas devastated by the country's worst cyclone in a decade.
The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, the Islamic equivalent of the Red Cross, warned the toll could hit 10,000 once rescuers reached outlying islands.
Ban Ki-moon, United Nations secretary general, said several million was available from the UN's emergency response funds. The US offered €1.4 million and the United Nations promised €4.9 million.
Others who pledged help included Germany, the European Union, Britain, which pledged €3.4 million and France.