Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:233 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his priorities to address war and starvation on the continent of Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21441/03]
Written Answers. - Overseas Development Aid.
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 war and food insecurity. To break the cycle of famine and conflict in Africa, the Government's priority is to address the underlying structural problems affecting poverty and stability. Development Cooperation Ireland, the official aid programme of the government, has strong development partnerships with six countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Through these partnerships, Development Co-operation Ireland fully engages with governments, communities, donors as well as EU and UN agencies, on the basis of poverty reduction strategy plans, PRSPs. The PRSPs provide a framework for the prioritisation of our African partners resources and policies with the objective of reducing poverty. Our development 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 facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of Africans. Development Co-operation Ireland is expected to deliver over €140 million in such assistance to Africa in 2003.
In addition to this long-term approach, we also respond in the short term to save lives in the most effective way possible, through direct assistance via the UN system and international agencies as well as non-governmental organisations. To date, this year the Government has intervened to provide lifesaving humanitarian and recovery assistance amounting to over €14 million in 18 countries throughout Africa. These interventions were designed to reduce the effects of natural and man-made disasters on some of the most vulnerable populations in Africa with a particular emphasis on women and children.
Moreover, we will continue to work with our donor partners, including the EU and the UN, to ensure maximum co-ordination and coherence in the international response to humanitarian crises across Africa.