Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:92 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which Ireland has assisted in the alleviation of famine in southern Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4516/99]
Written Answers. - Sudanese Famine.
Ireland has been consistent in its support to the people of Sudan over the past number of years and continues to commit substantial funds to the international humanitarian relief effort through the UN and Irish and international NGOs. Since 1994 Ireland has provided over £3.29 million in emergency assistance. In 1998 alone the Government provided over £1.6 million. A recent Irish Aid technical mission to south Sudan recommended that significant assistance should be continued in 1999. This assistance will be channelled through the relevant UN agencies and NGOs operational in Sudan.
Although the current humanitarian situation has stabilised, there is still cause for concern. While Bahr el Ghazal is the worst hit area, other regions such as Upper Nile and the Nuba Mountains, where access is difficult, are experiencing food shortages. In this regard the recent decision to allow a UN needs assessment mission to the Nuba mountains in March is a positive development.
The Government and SPLA have agreed to agreed to extend the humanitarian ceasefire until April 1999. However, the Government would like to see it extended in time and geographical area in order to allow people to sow and harvest their crops and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. We also continue to back efforts to find a political solution, without which the sustainability of what is a massive aid operation becomes questionable. The only viable way forward for the people of Sudan is for an end to the conflict and the beginning of meaningful political negotiations.