Vol. 574 No. 3
38 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way in which Ireland can best ensure that overseas development aid reaches those for whom it was intended with a minimum interference from administration, particularly in countries lacking in democracy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26829/03]
147 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the checks made to ensure that overseas development aid reaches those for whom it was intended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27057/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 147 together.
The central objectives of the Irish programme of development co-operation continue to be the reduction of poverty and the promotion of sustainable development. Meeting the basic human needs of some of the poorest people in the world and improving their access to food, water, health services, sanitation, education and employment are key goals of the programme, at both bilateral and multilateral level.
The main geographical focus of the bilateral programme is Sub-Saharan Africa, the poorest region in the world. Within the framework of three year country strategy papers, CSPs, Development Co-operation Ireland provides long-term development assistance to seven programme countries, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Timor Leste, Uganda and Zambia, as well as South Africa. In line with other donors, we operate in partnership with the Governments of these countries and agree our strategies with them to ensure that our interventions respond effectively to their development needs. We help to build up the capacity of these Governments to manage their own affairs, which in turn strengthens their sense of ownership of the whole development process.
