I propose to take Questions Nos. 114, 246 and 252 together.
The Government is deeply conscious of the enormity of the challenges facing African nations as they seek to build the foundations of economic and social development, often in a climate of famine and strife. Ireland continues to address these challenges bilaterally and with our partners in the European Union and the United Nations. While the focus of Ireland Aid, the official development assistance programme of the Government, remains on Africa, it also continues to assist where needs are greatest in other parts of the world.
Ireland Aid responds in two ways to the development needs of Africa and beyond. In the short-term, we focus on saving lives in the most effective way possible through direct assistance via the UN system and international agencies, as well as non-governmental organisations. In the long-term, Ireland Aid's development programmes tackle the structural reasons underlying endemic poverty and insecurity, especially on the African continent.
Last year, the Government intervened to provide emergency and recovery assistance on over 70 occasions in more than a dozen countries throughout Africa. This humanitarian assistance amounted to more than €20 million. These interventions were designed to reduce the effects of famine and conflict on some of the most vulnerable populations in Africa, with particular emphasis on women and children.
Our direct humanitarian assistance is complemented by ongoing political action. On food insecurity, we have been working closely with our partners in the EU and the UN to develop strategies on how immediate needs can best be met at national and regional level.
I have personally visited a number of famine-affected countries in Africa in recent months. On foot of these visits I communicated directly with my EU counterparts to urge a greater humanitarian response. I have met also key figures in the EU and UN, including the EU Commissioner with responsibility for development, the deputy executive director of the UN world food programme and the secretary general of the International Federation of the Red Cross, to highlight my concerns and to discuss ways of improving the co-ordination of assistance.
If we are to break the cyclical nature of food insecurity and conflict in Africa, the underlying structural problems affecting poverty and stability must be addressed. Ireland Aid has strong development partnerships with six countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Through these partnerships Ireland Aid fully engages with the Governments, donors and EU and UN agencies on the basis of poverty reduction strategy plans. These plans outline how each country prioritises resources and policies with the objective of reducing poverty. The programmes contain a strong governance element throughout to assist in the building of democratic structures, the rule of law and a culture of respect for human rights.
This comprehensive and African-owned approach by donors, Governments and civil societies stands the best chance of reversing the downward spiral of economic and social indicators in sub-Saharan Africa, reducing conflict and strife, and facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of Africans.