Galway: Business people, publicans, churches and even first-time offenders are among those involved in the numerous fund-raising efforts taking place throughout Galway city and county in response to the tsunami disaster.
Leading city businesswoman Ms Mary Bennet is a member of a group spearheading an ambitious three-year fund-raising project to provide financial aid to Sri Lanka.
She is helped by native Sri Lankans Mr Bob d'Silva and Mr Mike Weerakoon, who have both lived in Galway for some time. Under this project, the city will "adopt" the Sri Lankan town of Am Parat, which was devastated by the tidal wave.
Galway Chamber of Commerce and Industry has set up the Galway/Sri Lanka Relief Fund in conjunction with NUI Galway, GMIT, Ireland West Tourism, the Business and Professional Women's Association and Network.
A bank account has been opened at AIB, Lynch's Castle, to accept donations to this fund. The account number is 09197045, sort code 93-70-96.
As part of the fund-raising drive, a "clubbing for Asia" night was held on Saturday at Central Park and Halo nightclubs in the city, with all door receipts going towards the fund, as well as staff wages and donations from club-goers.
The Red Cross Disaster Fund received donations of almost €2,000 from first time offenders when district court judge Mr Timothy Lucey ordered them to pay into the charity instead of paying a fine when they appeared before the court.
This Friday night, a concert and auction will be held at the Radisson SAS Hotel, with top Irish traditional musicians taking part, including Frankie Gavin and Máirtín O'Connor. Tickets are on sale for €50: enquiries to Marie at (091) 563862.
Galway Mayor, Cllr Catherine Connolly, has launched her own appeal fund, to provide an opportunity for people to give practical assistance to those affected on the ground. Donations to the Mayoral Tsunami Appeal Fund can be made to account number 20050101, sort code 90-38-16. The account will remain open until at least the end of January.
