asked the Minister for Agriculture if Ireland has been requested to make a contribution towards the surplus food utilisation plan initiated jointly by the FAO and the United Nations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Surplus Food Utilisation Plan.
17.
The surplus utilisation plan initiated jointly by FAO and the United Nations, which is called the "World Food Programme", was discussed recently at meetings of the FAO Council and the United Nations Economic and Social Council at which this country was represented. Resolutions were passed inviting the governments of member nations of FAO and the U.N. to prepare for the Pledging Conference which will probably be held in June or July. At the Pledging Conference governments supporting the World Food Programme will pledge contributions of cash, commodities or services. The Irish Government supports the programme and will pledge an appropriate contribution.
Can the Minister say whether the Government have decided in what form the Irish contribution will be pledged?
Not precisely. The general idea appears to be that at least one-third should be in the form of cash.
It may be a mixed contribution?
Yes. We would certainly prefer sending some food.