The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, commenting on the loss of life caused by the earthquake in Indonesia and the neighbouring region, expressed his shock and his sympathy for the victims. Speaking on behalf of the Government and the State, Mr Ahern said: "This is an appalling tragedy for the whole region and I want to convey to the governments and peoples of the area our profound concern, our condolences to those who have lost loved ones and our solidarity with all who have suffered in this tragedy."
The Taoiseach noted that the Republic had already announced a special grant of 1 million from the aid budget to provide emergency assistance to the victims.
He said the Department of Foreign Affairs and the embassies in the region were doing everything possible to assist Irish people in the region and their families in the Republic.