Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2005
180 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance, further to Question No. 337 of 12 April 2005, the position regarding the use of IMF gold to fund debt cancellations; the discussions that took place on this issue at the April 2005 meetings of the IMF and World Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14929/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the recent spring meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, referred to in the Deputy's question, there was a preliminary discussion of key issues relating to proposals for further multilateral debt relief and its financing options. The meeting called for further discussions with shareholders and examination of the issues, including the possible use of IMF resources, ahead of the annual meetings of the IMF and the World Bank in the autumn. The development agenda remains a significant challenge. Substantial increases will be needed if we are to make progress with the targets of the millennium development goals.
