Vol. 523 No. 3
74 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, following the recent announcement that Ireland is to increase its aid to the developing world to four times that of today's level, he will consider the request that this funding should be channelled through the Irish non-governmental organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20990/00]
The Irish Government's programme of development co-operation is delivered through three principal channels: direct development partnerships with a limited number of programme or priority countries, delivery of aid through multilateral organisations such as the EU, the UN system and the World Bank; and delivery of aid through non-governmental organisations and other partner organisations for smaller long-term development projects and programmes and for emergency responses. This approach, and the mix of activities made possible, is perceived as providing the optimum means of responding to the diverse and emerging needs of developing countries.
The Irish Government's programme of development co-operation recognises the important role which NGOs play in development efforts throughout the developing world. Their contribution to work at grassroots level and in emergency situations is particularly noteworthy. The bilateral programme has built strong and solid relationships with Irish NGOs and missionary orders over the years. In 1998 £20.7 million was channelled for development through NGOs. In 1999 this increased to £24.6 million. These figures are indicative of the belief which the Irish Government has in the capacity of NGOs to reach the poor and marginalised and in building the capacity of these groups to determine their own development.
In a situation of increased funding, such as that committed by the Taoiseach at the Millennium Summit on 6 September, the role of NGOs can and should be strengthened. We are currently considering the introduction of multi-annual funding for the larger NGOs which are already in receipt of block grants. This will facilitate better planning of their development activities and provide a greater measure of assurance regarding funding levels. This more strategic approach will also facilitate a greater focus on the quality of outcomes and impact of development projects and programmes. We will work with all NGOs to build an even more robust partnership with them and indeed with the various strands of civil society with an interest in development. The search for sustainable development through quality interventions and the adoption of best practice is a collective endeavour.
In the context of the expanding aid programme a review is being undertaken with a view to providing the best possible basis for the planned expansion and development of the enlarged programme. This process will, include, inter alia, consultations with the main NGOs and also the smaller ones represented by Dochas, the representative body for Irish development NGOs.
