The Minister for Defence and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, has announced the provision of medical equipment to Lebanon, following the explosion which devastated Beirut.
Minister Coveney stated:
"Ireland sends its deepest sympathies to all of those affected by the terrible explosion in Beirut, particularly those who have lost loved ones.
"Ireland enjoys strong relations with Lebanon – it is a country where our peacekeepers have served with distinction since 1978. At this time of need, we stand in solidarity with Lebanon, and I have approved today the dispatch of much needed medical equipment and personal protective equipment.
"This material, provided by the HSE and transported by the Defence Forces on board an Air Corps Casa, will greatly assist the efforts of the WHO in Lebanon as they coordinate the international health response to this disaster, as well as the ongoing threat of COVID-19.
"The operation represents a significant and rapid cross-government response involving the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the HSE."
Minister of State for Overseas Development and the Diaspora, Colm Brophy TD, added:
“The explosion in Beirut comes on top of an existing economic and humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. In particular, Lebanon continues to generously host over 1.5 million Syrian refugees. Ireland has already provided over €3.5 million in humanitarian funding in 2020, part of which is now being repurposed to cope with the implications of the explosion. This is part of over €30 million in humanitarian funding provided to Lebanon since 2014.
"As Beirut begins to rebuild and recover from this disaster, I want to assure the people of Lebanon of Ireland’s continued solidarity and support."
ENDS