asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs how long, in accordance with Government policy, it will take Ireland to contribute 0.7 per cent of gross national product by way of public development aid to impoverished countries, and the annual growth of such aid in each year, as Ireland moves towards the 0.7 per cent target.
Written Answers. - Aid to Impoverished Countries.
385.
At this stage, particularly in view of the economic variables involved, it is not possible to say how long it will take Ireland to contribute 0.7 per cent of gross national product by way of official development assistance to the developing world, nor is it possible at present to give an indication of the rate of progression towards this target. The Government of course remain committed to achieving the 0.7 per cent target as soon as possible.
The question of what appropriate medium-term target this country might aim at is at present under consideration.