Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I assure Deputy Durkan that the Government of Nepal is leading the response efforts and has declared a state of emergency across the affected districts. The United Nations resident and humanitarian co-ordinator for Nepal is co-ordinating international assistance on the ground in support of the country's Government. While it has been reported that much aid has not yet been delivered, I understand the position has improved significantly in recent days.

Deputy Durkan will be interested to learn that Ireland is increasing its funding for humanitarian assistance to families who were displaced by the recent earthquakes. The Government announced additional funding of €500,000 today, bringing Ireland's total contribution to €1.5 million. This increase in funding has been provided in response to the mounting humanitarian need that has become apparent as a result of ongoing assessments by Irish Aid partners on the ground.

I assure the Deputy that the Department, in conjunction with Irish non-governmental organisations, will continue to closely monitor the position and I will be pleased to keep the House informed of developments in the region.

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