Dublin - Oxfam Ireland has launched an emergency appeal for money for the victims of the earthquake.
Mr Brian Scott, director of Oxfam Ireland, said: "Already these people have suffered incredible hardship from drought and cyclones in recent years. They urgently need our help."
Oxfam International, of which Oxfam Ireland is a member, has strong links with the Gujarat state authorities as a result of its drought response programme, which started in May 2000 and its cyclone response in June 1999. Oxfam's immediate joint response will provide emergency water and sanitation supplies in Bhuj and Ahmedabad, eventually moving to long-term recovery and rehabilitation work in the region.
To donate to Oxfam Ireland's India Earthquake Appeal, telephone 1890 60 60 65 or donate through local Oxfam shops.