Sinn Féin’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Seán Crowe TD, has expressed his concern over the rising death toll in the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan.

The massive typhoon has wreaked havoc across the country, where it has displaced over 660,000 people, and current official government estimates but the number of dead at over 1,700, but that number is expected to rise significantly.

Deputy Crowe said:

“My thoughts are with the Philippine people as they try to come to terms with the deadliest natural disaster to ever hit the country.

“The typhoon hit many remote areas in the country and as information is continuing to come in the sheer scale of this disaster is becoming apparent.

“Many who survived are now in desperate need of food, clean water and shelter. It is vital that the international community rally and respond in solidarity with the Philippine people at this time, and do everything they can to help the Philippine government assist affected citizens.

“Many Philippine nationals have made Ireland their home and do vital work, particularly in the caring professions in hospitals and nursing homes. My thoughts are with this community as they continue to receive news about their families and loved ones in the affected areas.”

ENDS