Nearly one month after the massive natural disaster hit Japan, donations from around the island are still streaming into relief agencies. But Red Cross Taiwan, which has raised more than 1.7 billion NT dollars in relief funds so far, is now suspected of foul play and criticized for withholding most of the funds from their Japanese counterpart. In response, the agency says its handling of the funds is completely accountable and transparent.

At the end of March, the Red Cross has raised more than 1.7 billion NT$ in contributions for the Japanese earthquake.

Still, a number of internet users continue to be unhappy as this sum of money has yet to be sent to Japan.

15,000 people have expressed their dissatisfaction calling for the Red Cross to make a complete, one-time donation to the Japanese Red Cross.

The Red Cross says that the first distribution will go to Japan on Wednesday.

The Red Cross said the remaining money will be sent after a follow-up agreement with the Japanese Red Cross, being used for post-disaster reconstruction.

Professional relief organizations will assess the use of funds and it wants to assure the public that all these funds will be fully used by Japanese victims.

The Red Cross also cited the 921 earthquake as an example, saying it had received nearly 1.7 billion NT$ though with interest,it accrued 1.8 billion NT$ as funds were earmarked for use until 2005 when all funds were exhausted.

For those that doubt their contributions, the Red Cross will make a full refund.

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