Written answers

Tuesday, 28 May 2013

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Humanitarian Aid

Photo of Joe McHughJoe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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127. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will update Dáil Éireann on his response to the recent tornado in Oklahoma; if he will describe the international efforts of support to which the Irish State is party; if he will offer to provide temporary accommodation to affected US families and temporary educational support to the children of affected families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25368/13]

Photo of Joe CostelloJoe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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The deadly tornado which struck the city of Moore in Oklahoma on the afternoon of 20 May caused widespread damage and destruction to the city itself and the surrounding district. The tornado's winds exceeded two hundred miles per hour, flattened entire blocks and demolished two schools and a hospital during the fifty minute period during which it passed through the area. Twenty four people were killed by the storm, ten of whom were children. Approximately three hundred and twenty people are reported to have been injured. I am sure that the Deputy and other members of the Dáil will join me in offering our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families at this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies also go out to the people of Oklahoma and to all whose lives have been affected.

As the Deputy will be aware, the United States' disaster response capability is one of the most advanced in the world. As such, while President Obama has declared a major disaster in Oklahoma and ordered US federal authorities to join in the efforts to search for survivors, the US Government has decided not to make any appeal for international assistance. Nevertheless and mindful of the exceptionally strong ties between Ireland and the United States, the Government of Ireland stands ready to provide help should this be required or requested. At both UN and EU level, the international community has also expressed its willingness to assist.

The Irish Consulate in Chicago has also been monitoring the situation and has liaised closely with contacts in Oklahoma throughout the crisis. At the present time, there are no reports of any Irish citizens being caught up in the tornado but the Consulate will continue to monitor the situation carefully.

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