Michael D Higgins TD

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Urgent need immediate assistance to people of Haiti

Issued : Wednesday 13 January, 2010

The Labour Party President and Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs Michael D Higgins has expressed his deep sympathy with the Haitian people in the aftermath of the massive earthquake which has hit the country and has urged the Irish government, the Irish people as well as humanitarian organisations to be generous in their response.

Deputy Higgins said: “The news overnight of this terrible catastrophe has been horrific.  It is estimated that this is the worst earthquake in the region in over 200 years, with a magnitude of 7.0, and it has wreaked further devastation on a deeply poor nation with a history of natural disaster- for example, four hurricanes struck in the end of 2008 to leave a destitute population yet more impoverished.

“Our first thoughts have to be for the victims of the earthquake, the injured and their families. Exact numbers are not yet available but it is feared that thousands may have lost their lives with thousands more still missing.

“I welcome Minister Martin’s statement that his Department has been liaising with various bodies in order to ascertain the safety of those Irish people in Haiti. It is crucial also, however, that Ireland take a lead in helping coordinate a response to this tragedy.

“This kind of disaster illustrates once again the extent to which many poorer countries are at risk from destructive natural phenomenon. It emphasises the need for a standing humanitarian rapid response unit, under the auspices of the United Nations, which could provide a speedy programme of assistance in cases of earthquakes or floods.

“I welcome the promises of support and help from NGOs working in the region, for example Haven, the Irish house-building agency, and again, urge the neighbouring, and wider, international community to come to the aid of this tragically stricken country.”