Bernard J. Durkan
Question:155 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if it is proposed to increase the num ber of countries to benefit from the bilateral aid programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21067/99]
Written Answers. - Bilateral Aid Programme.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:168 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the locations in respect of which Ireland contributes through the bilateral aid programme; the plans, if any, he has to extend this programme further; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21853/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 168 together.
Ireland operates programmes of aid in six designated priority countries in Africa with whom we have signed technical co-operation agreements. These countries are Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. These six number among the poorest in the world and are considered to be countries where our efforts can make maximum impact to help the poor. The combined allocation of Ireland aid funds to these countries in 1999 amounts to £41.7 million.
In addition, we are contributing to smaller programmes of assistance in two other countries – South Africa and Zimbabwe. Our programmes in these countries are intended to be of shorter duration and they are focused on a more limited specific range of problems. The combined value of the 1999 allocation for these countries is £3.4 million.
We are committed to continued expansion of our programme of aid and with this expansion the question of adding to the number of our priority countries naturally arises. It is our view that we should indeed extend our programme of assistance to one or two more priority countries. We have been studying options and specific proposals will shortly be presented to Government.