Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 December 2020
90. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to general concerns regarding State funding of charities for which individual child sponsorship is their major operational activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42321/20]
View answerNon-Governmental Organisation (NGO) partners of the Department of Foreign Affairs, funded through 'Irish Aid', the Government's official development cooperation programme are expected to comply with the Charities Regulatory Authority Governance Code and guidance. They are also expected to promote best practice in the delivery of aid and in this regard must also be signatories to, and ensure compliance with, the Dóchas Code of Conduct on Images and Messages.
My Department places particular emphasis on the well being of beneficiaries. For example, the largest Irish Aid CSO funding scheme requires NGO partners to maintain policies and procedures to keep safe, and prevent harm to, any children or vulnerable adults. They must ensure that such policies and procedures are implemented effectively, that regular training is provided, and that implementation is monitored and reviewed. They are also expected to inform the Department of any breakdown in safeguarding systems.
Charity fundraising activities are not supported by Irish Aid: advertisement campaigns, public relations, marketing and child sponsorship are ineligible for support.
