Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 February 2006
95 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way in which the Government supports and engages in democratisation processes in African countries in which it operates as a donor; the measures which have been taken in response to recent political unrest in these countries, for example in Ethiopia and Uganda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6863/06]
Amharc ar fhreagra141 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the conditions currently attached to aid from Ireland to developing countries; and the systems in place to ensure that in situations involving human rights abuses aid is redirected through alternative channels when appropriate. [6964/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 141 together.
The Government is committed to helping the poorest and most vulnerable people in the developing world. Support for good governance and democratisation is critical for eradicating poverty and promoting development. Ireland's aid programme is committed to strengthening good governance in our partner countries through support for democratic systems of government; public sector reform; strengthening the rule of law; and enhancing respect for human rights.
For example, in Lesotho, Ireland supports electoral reform and civic education. In Mozambique support is provided for capacity building programmes for electoral bodies. In Ethiopia, Ireland supports the Human Rights Commission as well as local non-governmental organisations active in the areas of human rights and prisoner support. In Uganda, Ireland supports the promotion of free and fair elections and through our embassy in Kampala is participating in monitoring the presidential and parliamentary elections.
The aid programmes in all of Ireland's programme countries, including Ethiopia and Uganda, are constantly monitored and reviewed to ensure the continuous relevance and quality of the programmes. Recent negative political developments in Ethiopia and Uganda have raised questions about Ireland's development co-operation programmes in those countries. In the light of these developments, Ireland, along with other donors, has been reviewing its development aid activities and plans in both countries.
In 2005, the Government reduced aid to Uganda by €3 million because of concerns about the slow pace of democratic reform and transition to a multi-party system. We are continuing to assess the situation over this crucial period in the run-up to the presidential and parliamentary elections.
In making future assessments of and decisions about Ireland's cooperation with Uganda and Ethiopia, I will be guided by the situation on the ground and by close contact and liaison with our EU and like-minded development partners. I will at all times take a careful and measured approach ensuring that any decisions will not impact negatively on the poor in either country.
