Irish diplomats across southern Asia are attempting to establish the whereabouts of Irish holidaymakers and residents following the tidal waves that struck the region two days ago.
The Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin said it has specific concerns about two Irish women in southern Thailand who are feared missing.
On RTÉ's News at One programme, Ireland's ambassador to Thailand and Malaysia, Dan Mulhall, said he knew there were some Irish people in badly affected areas.
Yesterday, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dermot Ahern, said relatives of people in the affected region should understand that communications systems are down in many of the affected areas.
Mr Ahern said it could be days if not weeks before a clearer picture emerges of how many Irish people have been affected. The department is continuing to operate a helpline number on (01) 408 2308.
The department has also appealed to families who have heard from their relatives to contact the helpline so that those still unaccounted for can be taken off their list.
Information regarding missing people in Thailand is available at www.ceronsoftware.com/phuket .
Irish aid agencies appeal for relief funds
Meanwhile, Irish aid agencies have appealed to the public to give generously so that relief can be provided to victims of the tidal waves.
Following the Government's initial allocation of €1m, the Irish Red Cross has sent €100,000. The aid agency, Goal dispatched an assessment team from Calcutta in India to the southern coastal areas of the country to provide assistance.
UNICEF Ireland has pledged €150,000 in humanitarian aid.
