Vol. 575 No. 1
124 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the priorities of his Department for the coming years in the context of the Estimates for 2004; if his attention has been drawn to the huge interest in these matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27935/03]
The priorities for my Department for the period 2003 to 2005 are as set out in the Department's strategy statement. In summary, these include work to achieve the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the sustained operation of all its institutions; pursuance of Ireland's foreign policy in accordance with the ideals enshrined in the Constitution and in conformity with the principles of the United Nations Charter; promotion and protection of Ireland's interest at the heart of the European Union as it enlarges and develops while ensuring an efficient and effective EU Presidency in 2004; promotion of Ireland's trade, investment, cultural and other interests, and ensuring that the State's network of diplomatic and consular missions adds value to these tasks; making a substantial and effective contribution to lasting poverty reduction and sustainable growth in developing countries through the policy and programmes of Development Co-operation Ireland; and protecting the interests of Irish citizens abroad, maintaining and strengthening links with people of Irish ancestry and providing a modern and efficient passport and consular service.
In pursuance of these objectives, the Estimates for Public Services for 2004, published last week, include a total provision of over €204 million for Vote 28 – Foreign Affairs and €399 million for Vote 29 – International Co-operation.
The provision for Vote 28 includes an allocation to cover the costs of managing Ireland's EU Presidency in 2004, funding for the development of a new modernised passport production facility to meet the highest international standards for travel documents, and an increased provision for emigrant services abroad.
The allocation in 2004 of €399 million for Vote 29 represents the highest ever allocation to the Vote and an increase of €25 million over 2003. This will enable the Government to maintain official development assistance at 0.41% of GNP. Key priorities in 2004 will include assistance to programme countries – East Timor, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia; supporting the fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic; provision of increased dedicated funding for NGOs; and funding for responses to emergency humanitarian crises. Development co-operation will also be a key focus of our 2004 EU Presidency.
