Written Answers. - Overseas Development Aid.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:
93
Mr. Durkan
asked the
Minister for Foreign Affairs
the extent to which he proposes to take steps through the UN and EU to address the issues of hunger and warfare in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30463/03]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:
140
Mr. Durkan
asked the
Minister for Foreign Affairs
the extent to which he can bring pressure to bear on the international community to address the increasing problems of starvation and warfare in the various African countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30672/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 93 and 140 together.
I am deeply conscious of the enormity of the challenges facing African nations as they seek to build the foundations of economic and social development, often in a climate of hunger and warfare. The reduction of poverty, hunger and conflict in Africa are some of the most important tasks to which the international community can dedicate itself in the 21st century. These tasks can only be achieved when donors such as Ireland, the EU and others work hand in hand with United Nations agencies dedicated to relieving poverty, tackling famine and reducing conflict.
Ireland responds in two ways to the humanitarian and development needs of Africa. In the short-term we focus on saving lives in the most effective way possible, through direct assistance via the UN system and international agencies as well as non-governmental organisations. In the longer term, Irelands development programme tackles the structural reasons underlying endemic poverty and insecurity. Last year the Government intervened to provide emergency and recovery assistance on over 70 occasions in more than a dozen countries throughout Africa. This humanitarian assistance amounted to more than €20 million. These interventions were designed to reduce the effects of famine and conflict on some of the most vulnerable populations in Africa, with a particular emphasis on women and children. While the final financial outturns for 2003 are not yet available, indications are that the amount expended in Africa on humanitarian and recovery operations will be in excess of €20 million.
In the past 18 months, I have visited those regions in Africa where food insecurity and conflict have most directly affected millions of people. During visits to southern Africa, Ethiopia and Liberia I met with a wide range of key development stakeholders, including governments, EU partner donors, UN agencies and NGOs. During these visits I discussed food security issues, conflict resolution and development in general.
Our direct humanitarian assistance is complemented by ongoing political action. On the issue of food insecurity, we have been working closely with our partners in the EU and the UN to develop strategies on how immediate needs can best be met at national and regional level. Ireland is supportive of the decision by the EU to establish a peace facility for Africa, which will assist in supporting African Governments to prevent and solve conflicts on the continent; €250 million has been allocated by the EU for the facility.
On 19 November last, Ireland hosted the launch of the 2004 UN humanitarian appeal. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Ruud Lubbers, represented the UN at the event. The appeal is a key instrument for the humanitarian community and acts as the principal vehicle for strategic planning and resource mobilisation. It facilitates effective and efficient responses to famines and other emergencies by fostering collaboration among key humanitarian agencies including NGOs, donors and host Governments. In hosting the launch, I highlighted chronic humanitarian emergencies, particularly in Africa, which have faded from public consciousness or indeed have never been funded sufficiently. At the EU level, Ireland will host an informal meeting of the humanitarian affairs committee in Dublin next March. This meeting will bring together senior representatives from the humanitarian offices in member states and the Commission to share information in relation to the management and implementation of humanitarian aid.
If we are to break the cyclical nature of food insecurity and conflict in Africa, the underlying structural problems affecting poverty and stability must be addressed. Ireland has strong development partnerships with six countries in subSaharan Africa. Through these partnerships, Ireland fully engages with the Governments, donors, EU and UN agencies on the basis of poverty reduction strategy plans, PRSPs. The PRSPs outline how each country prioritises resources and policies with the objective of reducing poverty. These programmes contain a strong governance element throughout to assist in the building of democratic structures, the rule of law and a culture of respect for human rights. This comprehensive and African-owned approach by donors, Governments and civil societies stands the best chance of reversing the downward spiral of economic and social indicators in sub-Saharan Africa, reducing conflict and facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of Africans.
