I should like to thank Members for their comments. As Deputy Lenihan pointed out, my approach is that there should be all-party consensus on development matters in the Oireachtas. That was one of my objectives when I proposed the establishment of a Joint Oireachtas committee. We are also ad idem on what should be our primary motivation for involving ourselves in assistance to Third World countries. Clearly that motivation must be humanitarian and idealistic but it is proper to point out that there are economic benefits and spin-offs. In fact, those benefits are far greater than many people realise. I am not one of those who say that we should shun such spin-offs, quite the contrary, provided we still retain the essential primary motivation for involvement as being humanitarian and idealistic.
It is important that the efforts which have improved over the years are maintained and improved further in the years ahead. In that regard the point made by Deputy Mitchell is on the button. In the years ahead, whatever Executive is in power, I can see the Joint Oireachtas Committee having a role to play.
The House will be aware that development co-operation has two main focuses, on relief and development. The relief aspect captures public attention most dramatically. The House, and the public, are aware of the grim spectre of famine stalking the lands of Africa last year. I would like to be in a position to report to the House that the position will be better in 1986 but already there are assessments from Ethiopia, the Sudan, Somalia and other countries that there could be a repetition. At official level, and on the part of the public, I will be seeking the same generous response as that given to the crisis which developed in Africa last year.
The area of activity which has a lower public profile but from the point of view of a long term solution is at least as important, is the development aspect. Essentially, we have to aim to help those countries to become self-sufficient. Ultimately, that is the solution to the problem. It is in that context that the development aspect of our programmes is of such great relevance. As Deputy Lenihan pointed out, there is a major concentration in the official effort on technical assistance and I envisage that emphasis continuing.
Deputy Mitchell mentioned the question of the UN target and I am glad to say that from a very low base progress has been made, continues to be made and, I hope, will continue in the years ahead. It is relevant to point out that in 1974, when the bilateral aid programme was first established, the entire development assistance funding at official level was £1.5 million. When I first came into office in 1981 the figure was £18 million. Under the national plan the figure this year will be in the order of £44 million and it is proposed to increase it to £50 million in 1987. While we must continue to seek to make progress in monetary terms and in relation to the percentage of GNP, we should realise that the last decade has shown an improvement and an increase virtually every year.
I am glad that this motion has received the support of all parties. I reiterate my compliments to the committee under the capable chairmanship of Deputy Nora Owen and I hope it will continue to make as effective a contribution in future under its expanded terms of reference.