Madam, - One must be forgiven for being a little cynical about the US reaction to the tsunami disaster in Asia.
Following widespread criticism of its initial aid contribution President Bush sought to regain some moral ground and raised the relief package to $350 million. Having belatedly done so, the US administration could not resist the PR opportunity afforded and felt it necessary to launch Jeb Bush on to the world stage.
Only time will tell how much this exercise had to do with bringing relief to the afflicted in Asia or to preparing the American public for the next President Bush and trying to gain some credibility among Muslims worldwide.
This apparent US generosity is brought more clearly into focus, however, when one considers that American aid to Israel, one of the world's wealthiest countries, exceeds $5 billion each year. The fruits of this generosity are all too painfully apparent.- Yours, etc.,
SEAN CLINTON,
Barrington's Bridge,
Lisnagry,
Co Limerick.
Madam, - In almost every news report from south-east Asia we are told that one of the biggest problems facing devastated communities will be the logistics of rebuilding. With Ireland's construction boom of the past 10 years we are well placed to share both skills and equipment with the peoples of that stricken region.
Perhaps the Construction Industry Federation, FÁS and manufacturers of plant equipment might consider co-ordinating a charitable reconstruction initiative of some sort? - Yours, etc.,
DESMOND EARLEY,
Kiltipper Drive,
Dublin 24.
Madam, - In responding with such extraordinary generosity to the Tsunami disaster, we must not overlook our responsibility to the people of Darfur, many of whom have suffered unimaginable hardship, violation and hunger.
The terrible events in Asia should bring home to us all the need in today's global community today to stretch out the hand of friendship to those in most desperate need no matter where they live. Through our donations, no matter how small, we can assure them that we do not ignore their plight. - Yours, etc.,
JOHN GAFFNEY,
Blackrock,
Cork