Government announces aid for Indian flood regions

The Government has announced an emergency aid package of £250,000 for the people affected by flooding in the eastern Indian state of Orissa.

More than eight million people have been affected with more than 11 districts still waterlogged, as the floodwater slowly recedes.

The aid, which will be distributed by Irish aid agencies Goal and Concern, will be used to provide basic shelter, food and medicines to the worst affected areas.

Announcing the package, Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Overseas Development, Assistance and Human Rights, Liz O'Donnell, TD, said the package demonstrates the continuation of the Government's commitment to that area.