Skip to main content
Normal View

Humanitarian Aid

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 December 2013

Wednesday, 18 December 2013

Questions (49)

Brendan Smith

Question:

49. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if further assistance under the Irish Aid programme will be provided before the end of this year to assist with the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria and adjoining areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54702/13]

View answer

Written answers

The protracted and tragic crisis in Syria has resulted in unprecedented levels of humanitarian need, requiring a sustained response from the international community. As the number of fatalities rises towards 120,000, including 12,000 children under five, there are now approximately nine million people in need of immediate life-saving support. In addition to more than 6.5 million people who are displaced within Syria, there are currently 2.2 million Syrians who have fled to neighbouring countries. Ireland has been to the fore in the international efforts to help alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people and is one of the most generous contributors to the humanitarian response on a per capita basis. We have provided more than €14 million in assistance since the crisis began, of which almost €11.4 million was provided in 2013. In addition, Ireland is an important donor to the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) which this year has allocated US$82 million to Syria and neighbouring countries.

We are currently actively examining future support for Syria and we are preparing for the second pledging conference for Syria and region due to take place in Kuwait on 15 January 2014.

The Government has matched the very significant humanitarian contribution to Syria with support to international efforts to find a sustainable political solution to the crisis. We have called clearly for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access. We have urged all parties to the conflict to fully respect international humanitarian law and to refrain from the targeting of civilians. In view of the immense needs in Syria and neighbouring countries hosting Syrian refugees, Ireland will continue to call for increased support to the humanitarian relief effort, both within the EU and internationally.

Top
Share