The Government shares the Deputy's concern about the issues raised in his question. It believes that every effort should be made to resolve the Iraq crisis without recourse to the use of military force, as it is concerned that such force could destabilise a region that is already volatile, particularly in view of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The Iraqi leadership has refused to comply with its obligations for 12 years and it is to be regretted that only the credible threat that further non-compliance with Security Council resolutions will lead to military action appears to hold any prospect of inducing a change in this attitude. The Government has repeatedly expressed its preference for a solution that would avoid the use of force, and it hopes that the Security Council's determination, expressed in Resolution 1441, will convince Iraq of the seriousness of its situation and the need for it to comply without delay. Ireland considers that scaling back expenditure on arms could contribute to a reduction in tensions regionally and globally, with consequent advantages for economic and social development.
The figures concerning hunger currently emanating from Africa are stark. The UN world food programme estimates that at least 28 million people will be affected by the food shortages in the horn of Africa and southern Africa. At least 38 million people are at risk in Africa and the figures seem to be increasing on a daily basis. The disaster that is unfolding is unprecedented in its scale and extent. The international community, including Ireland, is responding to Africa's food needs. The world food programme has primary responsibility for the purchase and distribution of food assistance to those most in need. The programme is feeding over 22 million people across Africa, a number that is set to rise as new donor contributions come on stream. A further 16 million people are being assisted by other organisations and agencies. The problem could worsen as more people drop into the most vulnerable category.