Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:318 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will meet Ireland’s overseas development spending obligation of 0.7% of GDP by 2012. [41538/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 November 2009
Ceisteanna (274)
Freagraí scríofa
In 2008, Ireland spent €920 million on Official Development Assistance (ODA). This represented approximately 0.59 % of our Gross National Product (GNP). For 2009 the total budget for ODA is expected to reach €696 million. Based on current projections this will represent at least 0.48% of GNP. This means that Ireland will remain one of the most generous donors in the world on a per capita basis. The Government is currently examining expenditure estimates in preparation for next month's 2010 Budget statement. Our aim is to protect the aid programme to the maximum extent possible within the context of the current difficult fiscal environment. Finally, I would point out that Ireland's aid programme is recognised internationally as one of the best in the world. Our peers in the OECD have described it as "cutting edge". I can assure the Deputy that this quality will be maintained while we continue to ensure maximum value for taxpayers' money in our aid programme.