Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

-----particularly in the context of how we might learn lessons with regard to how the aid was deployed, etc. I have read some first-hand accounts issued by aid agencies which indicate that a great deal of aid was brought into the country early on and was effective. However, there were infrastructural difficulties. Not least among these was that relating to the port, which was critical in the context of getting shipments of food and so forth into the country at an early date.

I am of the view that we should reflect on developing a coherent and cohesive approach, even from countries such as Ireland. I was taken aback by the plethora of organisations that were seeking donations from the public. Deputy Timmins and I have similar views on this matter. A more coherent, cohesive approach might be better overall in the context of harnessing the public's generosity.

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