Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 13 Feb 2002

Vol. 548 No. 3

Written Answers. - Overseas Development Aid.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

114 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the new approach adopted by Denmark in its aid programme in cutting aid to such countries as Zimbabwe and Malawi due to the fact they do not wish to prop up dictators; and if such thinking will inform decisions in relation to Irish aid in the future. [4919/02]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen):

I am aware of the decisions made by Denmark referred to by the Deputy and of the fact that, for reasons to do with current economic pressures, there have been cuts in all areas of Danish Government expenditure, including development assistance.

Some of the thinking which lies behind these decisions is already part of the Government's own approach. Acceptable standards of governance are essential for the success of a programme of assistance to developing countries. While governance is a developing issue, Irish involvement in the form of a bilateral aid programme will be contemplated only if a country demon strates a clear commitment to democratic values, to the building of transparent and responsible governmental institutions and to the protection of human rights. A clear commitment on the part of the country concerned to poverty reduction is also required. The trend of its policies must be towards the improvement of its governance and increased respect for human rights. Countries which do not satisfy these and other essential conditions will not be assisted at the government to government level. If the quality of governance in a country which we are supporting with a bilateral programme falls below required thresholds, we are ready to terminate the programme.