Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 97: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the report commissioned by the Government in the aftermath of the Asian tsunami; and if he will give an indication of the Irish presence in Aceh, both in terms of those persons employed by the Irish Government as well as those working for non-governmental associations. [18489/05]

Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Mr. Chris Flood, in his role as the Irish Government's special envoy to the tsunami affected region, has to date made one visit to Thailand, two to Sri Lanka and one to Indonesia. Mr. Flood's role is to oversee the disbursement of Ireland's assistance and to ensure it is carried out in line with best international practice.

Mr. Flood has briefed the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Ahern, and myself on his findings and has submitted two interim reports. These reports provide information about the humanitarian situation in the affected areas and the progress of the national and international response to date. The reports also include recommendations as to how the Government's response to the tsunami can be developed in line with evolving needs. Mr. Flood's recommendations have been incorporated into the Government's overall tsunami response strategy. Mr. Flood will submit a final report following his next visit to the region, which is scheduled for July.

While the Government does not have a permanent presence in Aceh, several assessment and monitoring missions have been made to the region by officials from Development Co-operation Ireland. With regard to Irish NGOs in the region, Concern has a number of Irish personnel on the ground, as have the Irish Red Cross and Hope International. Trócaire is in the process of opening a regional office in Jakarta and some of its Irish personnel will travel to Aceh province from time to time. In addition, a number of Irish missionaries are also working in the region.