Vol. 574 No. 3
60 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if it remains the Government's commitment to meet the target for ODA of 0.7% of GNP by 2007; the proportion of that target that will be met in 2003 and in each successive year up to 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26722/03]
96 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts he is making to ensure that overseas development aid reaches 0.7% of GDP by 2007, as agreed. [26794/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 96 together.
The Government continues to have as an objective the achievement of the ODA target of 0.7% of GNP by 2007. Every effort is being made to provide the resources needed to work towards that target. Despite the many pressures on the public finances at present, an allocation of €399 million is to be made in 2004 to my Department's Vote for international co-operation. In addition, elements of ODA which are administered by other Departments are expected to total some €80 million next year. Total spending on ODA, therefore, is expected to approach €480 million in 2004, the highest ever in the history of the programme. This level of expenditure in difficult budgetary circumstances demonstrates the profound commitment of the Government to the attainment of the UN target.
In 2001, our aid expenditure amounted to 0.33% of GNP. This year it is likely to reach 0.41%. Next year it is likely to reach the same level or possibly exceed it. In percentage terms, Ireland will remain one of the world's leading donors. We are currently in seventh place, and well ahead of the EU average. The Government hopes that increased allocations, the scale and timing of which will be considered on an ongoing basis, will be possible over the coming years with a view to the achievement of our objective.
