Messages sent to Russia, with love

HUNDREDS of Irish people queued to sign books of condolences for the victims of the Beslan school massacre.

Books were opened across the country and queues formed in Dublin, Cork and Galway.

Money raised in an appeal, organised by a charity with extensive experience in Russia, will go directly to help the post-trauma needs of injured victims and the families of those who died in the Beslan massacre.

To Russia with Love, set up six years to help orphaned children in the west of the country, has responded to the tragedy by setting up a special bank account.

The appeal has the full support of the Russian Ambassador to Ireland, Vladimir Rakhmanin, and the Irish Ambassador to Russia, Justin Harman.

UNICEF Ireland has also launched an appeal for funds as the organisation internationally has already begun an operation to deliver medical supplies to the hospitals where over 300 children are still being treated. Trauma counsellors will also be sent to the area.

The Government yesterday announced funding of 100,000 to assist families affected by the tragedy. The money will be given to the International Red Cross.

Minister of State Tom Kitt TD said: “The Government’s funding is being pledged to enable the organisation to best respond to the immediate needs of the families at this most difficult time. Support will include assistance towards the provision of trauma counselling.”

In Dublin, a book of condolence was opened at the Russian Embassy on the Rathgar Road while the Lord Mayor Michael Conaghan opened another at Mansion House in

Dawson Street.

Mansion House will be open today from noon to 6pm and tomorrow from 10am to 6pm.

Sean Martin, Cork’s Lord Mayor, also opened a book of condolence at the foyer of City Hall. People can sign from 9am to 5pm during the next few days.

There is also a book open at St Nicholas Collegiate Church in Galway.

To Russia with Love will deliver all money raised to the head of paediatrics in Beslan General Hospital.

Money will be used for any post-trauma procedures deemed necessary to help the victims and their families, the charity said.

Founder Debbie Deegan said it was a special appeal outside of the charity’s usual work but said it was necessary because of the enormity of the tragedy.

People can make a donation to the ‘To Russia With Love’ account in AIB Artane, sort code: 93-20-78, account no: 21221-073. Donations can be sent to the office at

Seaview House, 192 Clontarf Road, Dublin 3.