Deirdre Clune
Question:35 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Finance when he will introduce the Bretton Woods agreement amendment Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23699/98]
Written Answers - Proposed Legislation.
Drafting is at an advanced stage. The intention is to submit the White Print of the Bill to Government in week commencing 16 November 1998. It is my intention to have this Bill passed by the Oireachtas before Christmas.
The Deputy will be aware of the Government's £31.5 million debt package announced on 16 September last. In the context of this major debt relief package and in view of the progress made under the HIPC initiative and the lessons learnt from the ESAF evaluation, I consider that it is now appropriate for Ireland to honour its proposed contribution of £7 million — over 14 years — to ESAF. Subscription to ESAF is consistent with, and should enhance the attainment of Ireland's wider overseas development co-operation objectives.