Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 March 2022
300. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the avenues available for persons living in Ireland to donate medical supplies, namely insulin to Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13001/22]
View answerThe generosity of the people of Ireland in responding to this crisis, the impulse to help those in need, and the strong solidarity with Ukraine, is very welcome and is to be commended.
From a practical perspective, with airports closed and other transportation infrastructure under great pressure, the sending and transporting of large numbers of individual consignments of physical goods, from many locations, is already increasing congestion in the channels delivering relief and hampering aid efforts.
Working through agencies already on the ground, who are coordinating their efforts with the relevant local authorities, is the most effective way to make a contribution. People in Ireland who would like to assist are advised to send funds rather than goods. This can be done through donating to established Irish and international humanitarian organisations. Dóchas, the umbrella organisation for Irish NGOs, has made available a list of entities which have launched Ukraine appeals. Websites can be accessed at: dochas.ie/whats-new/ukraine-how-you-can-help/
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also launched an emergency appeal for Ukraine, which can be accessed here: who-emergency-appeal---ukraine-and-neighbouring-countries.pdf.
