Irish people who survived or were bereaved by the earthquake disaster in southern Asia will be able to avail of 24 hour counselling services it was announced today.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern said earlier: "This has been an appalling tragedy on an unparalleled scale. It is to be expected that those who lived through it, or who tragically lost a loved one, will have been deeply affected by their experiences and some of these people may benefit from professional support in coping with these events.
"Following consultations with the Department of Health and Children, I am pleased to announce that counselling services will be made available to those who require them from tomorrow by the Health Services Executive. Anyone who wishes to avail of these services should contact 1850 24 18 50 and they will be referred to the appropriate services in their area."
Meanwhile, it was also announced that the Government had agreed in principle to send more financial aid - on top of the €10m it already agreed to send - for the relief of victims of the disaster.
The Government is also prepared to send logistical aid to the region. A technical team will arrive in the region at the weekend to asses what logistical aid Ireland can send.
Mr Ahern, and the Minister for Defence, Mr O'Dea, will in the coming days discuss the requirement for money and personnel with UN officials.