Aid agencies already in place

International and local relief workers have been better prepared to respond quickly to the Indonesian earthquake because they…

International and local relief workers have been better prepared to respond quickly to the Indonesian earthquake because they had already been preparing for Mount Merapi to erupt, Michael O'Riordan, humanitarian co-ordinator for Oxfam Ireland, said yesterday.

Although many of the supplies needed are already in place, relief groups are appealing urgently for cash to ensure that the materials are rapidly replaced.

The immediate priority is plastic sheeting and rudimentary shelter to keep people dry and prevent the spread of sickness, Mr O'Riordan said. Workers are also bringing sanitary supplies, such as soap and clean water, and sarongs and blankets.

Long-term help will include the building of "earthquake-resistant, not earthquake-proof" housing, Mr O'Riordan said.

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Aoife Mac Eoin, spokeswoman for the Irish Red Cross, said that the organisation is funnelling its assistance through the local Indonesian Red Cross, which is setting up 17 mobile health units, while the Norwegian Red Cross is putting up a 200-bed hospital, complete with an operating theatre and X-ray facilities, she said.

Meanwhile, Trócaire has pledged €150,000 towards rescue and recovery efforts. The response will be led through Trócaire's office in Jakarta and local partners in Java, such as Catholic Relief Services.

Goal has sent an assessment team from its base in Sri Lanka to Java in Indonesia. €100,000 has been allocated for immediate assistance to the survivors.

To donate to the Red Cross, call 1850 507070 or go to www.redcross.ie; for Oxfam Ireland, visit www.oxfamireland.org.