Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 36: To ask the Minister for Defence the current level of assistance being given to the United States in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25948/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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While primary responsibility in this area lies with my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, a request for assistance from the United States of America in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was received through the EU monitoring and information centre in Brussels. Following consideration by the military authorities it was decided to offer to supply and operate two water treatment and purification plants; three critical stress debrief teams; 3,000 ready to eat meals; 65 tents for approximately 500 people; and, if required, a team of Defence Forces personnel to run a camp. Staff officers and logistics experts could also be provided. This response, along with responses from 20 other EU member states was made to the USA through the EU monitoring and information centre. The USA accepted a number of offers but did not call on Ireland in this regard. However, a donation of €1 million was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and accepted by the USA.