Venezuelans in Ireland Urge Aid After June 24 Earthquakes Kill 2,600

Venezuelans in Ireland are appealing for support following two massive earthquakes that struck Venezuela's northern coast on June 24, killing at least 2,600 people and injuring or displacing thousands more, particularly in La Guaira.

Yonelys Ainagas, living in Ireland since 2013, described the situation as an «unimaginable tragedy» at a Dublin rally. She emphasized Venezuela's reliance on international aid and urged donations to reputable charities, stating that every act of support can save lives. Alexa Hill, an Irish citizen, recounted a terrifying phone call with her mother during the quake, noting that while her immediate family is safe, others in Ireland have lost relatives.

Hill highlighted the extreme difficulty of rebuilding lives amidst Venezuela's pre-existing economic crisis, hyperinflation, and a struggling healthcare system. Vanessa Tabila, another Irish citizen, criticized the government's slow response, describing civilians digging through rubble with bare hands. Some of her relatives, including two teenagers, are still missing and presumed dead.

Lisette Krol, in Ireland for 24 years, received a harrowing message from her mother during the quakes. Her Dublin studio, Tribe Fitness Dance, has raised thousands of euros for aid. Krol advised donating to reputable international organizations or directly to known individuals in Venezuela, fearing government diversion of funds. More information is available through the Venezuelan Community in Ireland group.