Department denies Katrina aid was not sent

THE Department of Foreign Affairs last night rejected claims it had failed to deliver promised aid to victims of Hurricane Katrina in America.

Ireland has not sent any of the 30 soldiers it promised to help Katrina victims. Neither have the pledged supplies been sent. These include bundles of first-aid kits, pillows and blankets and 3,000 ready-to-eat meals. Crutches and wheelchairs were also promised.

Explaining the background to Ireland's promised help, a department spokesperson said: "Basically, it is still on offer - but it hasn't been requested by the US."