Ireland gives £250,000 to India flood victims

The Government is to donate £250,000 to the victims of flooding in the eastern Indian state of Orissa.

The aid announced today will provide basic shelter, food and medicines to the most affected communities and is a continuation of the Government's humanitarian commitment to that area. Ms Liz O'Donnell

The area is one of India's poorest and more than eight million people were affected by the flooding.

Of the grant aid £103,000 is being given to GOAL which is carrying out relief work in the Puri District. A further £100,000 has been allocated to Concern which is providing food and other essential items to the most severely affected families.

The rest of the money - £47,000 - is being provided for other emergency efforts.

Announcing the aid package Minister of State Ms Liz O'Donnell said: "The aid announced today will provide basic shelter, food and medicines to the most affected communities and is a continuation of the Government's humanitarian commitment to that area."