Michael P. Kitt
Question:29 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans, if any, he has to provide further assistance for the people of Bangladesh in view of the damage and destruction caused by flooding. [9228/95]
Written Answers. - Bangladesh Flooding.
The lastest storms in the Bay of Bengal, which began on May 15, have caused loss of life and severe flood damage along the southern coastline of Bangladesh. According to reports received by my Department, it is estimated that some 10 people have died and over 40,000 people have been affected by the recent storms. Many of the deaths were apparently caused by contaminated water and inadequate sanitary conditions following the heavy rainfall.
The Government of Bangladesh are co-ordinating the damage assessment and the relief operation following the latest storms. To date they have not declared an emergency situation and have not requested any international assistance. The Department of Foreign Affairs has not received appeals from Irish or international aid agencies. If an appeal for assistance is received, it will be considered sympathetically.
Bangladesh is one of the countries in the world most prone to natural disasters. Since 1991 the Department of Foreign Affairs has allocated over £425,000 to Irish and international relief for emergency and rehabilitation projects to assist flood victims in Bangladesh. In addition, my Department is at present evaluating a proposal by Concern to co-fund a five year poverty alleviation programme which would focus on the needs of women living in slums in Bangladesh's main cities.