Vol. 497 No. 5
188 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Finance if it is his intention to reverse the Government's 1996 decision not to contribute to the IMF's Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility in view of its negative impact on people in developing countries; if it is the Government's intention to introduce legislation to enable an Irish contribution to ESAF; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25930/98]
189 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance the reasons for the proposed change in policy in relation to contributions to the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25352/98]
191 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the reversal of a 1996 decision not to contribute to the IMF's Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility; if his attention has been drawn to the reports that this scheme has failed to pay proper heed to policies necessary to combat poverty in benefiting countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25409/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 188, 189 and 191 together.
I consider that, in the context of the major debt relief package announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and me on 16 September, it is now appropriate for Ireland to honour its proposed contribution to ESAF. Subscription to ESAF would be consistent with and should enhance the attainment of Ireland's wider overseas development co-operation objectives.
