IRB pitches in for aid effort

The International Rugby Board (IRB) has announced a contribution of US$187,000 (141,860) to its humanitarian aid partner, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), to provide food aid to survivors of the Indian Ocean tsunami catastrophe.

"We feel that it's important to make a contribution to WFP's vital work in countries devastated by this disaster.

The money will be spent getting food to survivors and affected communities, one of the top priorities in the coming days and weeks," said IRB chairman Syd Millar.

"This is a long-term operation which will continue long after the initial relief work is completed. The IRB and its major member unions are looking at other ways of raising money to help with this humanitarian effort long term," added Millar.

Meanwhile the IRFU has requested all affiliated branches and clubs to consider fund raising initiatives in support of the Nationwide Sport Aid Weekend on Friday to Sunday next in aid of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Disaster Appeal.

Fundraising has already taken place with clubs throughout each province. Ulster and Munster have already conducted their own collections, with Connacht and Leinster also planning fundraising activities.

IRFU chief Executive Philip Browne said: "The IRFU expresses its profound sorrow on behalf of all Irish rugby at the extent of the tsunami tragedy and pledges to augment the fund raised by its branches and clubs with a further contribution to the disaster relief."

The president of Corinthians RFC, Martin McHugh, has appealed to all club members and supporters as well as the general public to come to Corinthian Park, Cloonacauneen, tomorrow for the club's top-of-the-table clash with Connemara at 2.30. The club are donating the gate takings to GOAL.

For further information about the WFP's Tsunami Disaster Appeal, contact: Greg Thomas, IRB, Tel. +353 868-196-149/email greg.thomas@irb.com; Justin Roche, WFP/Rome, Tel. +39-06-65132340/email justin.roche@wfp.org