Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 Jul 2003

Vol. 570 No. 2

Written Answers. - Overseas Development Aid.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

245 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the current figure for overseas development aid in absolute terms and as a percentage of GNP; the projected expenditure for the next three years; if such sums are committed for expenditure; his views on whether such commitments are essential to the achievement of the UN target; and if there will be no further cuts in overseas development aid in 2004 or the next three year period. [18759/03]

The Government's national programme of assistance to developing countries comprises two elements. The major component is my Department's Vote for international co-operation, €374 million in 2003, while elements of ODA, expected to total some €80 million in 2003, are administered by other Government Departments. Total spending on ODA is therefore expected to reach some €450 million in 2003, the highest ever in the history of the e programme. Current indications are that this will equate to 0.41% of GNP. The level of funding required to reach the 0.7% target will depend on patterns of economic growth and levels of GNP. As regards the projected level of expenditure for 2004, this will be decided later this year in the context of the annual Estimates negotiations.

Top
Share