Timmy Dooley
Ceist:13. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his future plans for overseas development aid in Budget 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50172/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 14 November 2012
Ceisteanna (13)
Freagraí scríofa
This Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s aid programme. Every day it makes a real difference in the lives of millions of the world’s poorest people. The programme is central to our foreign policy, has an enviable international reputation, and consistently enjoys strong political and public support. Over the past few years, and despite the very challenging fiscal position facing the Government, we have consistently maintained our level of contribution to Official Development Assistance (ODA) at above 0.5% of Gross National Product (GNP). In the current year, the Government has allocated €639 million to ODA which is expected to achieve an ODA/GNP percentage target of at least 0.5%.
This is an important and significant achievement and a very clear indication of our commitment to the aid programme, and to achieving the UN target of 0.7% of GNP. However, as I have stated on many occasions in the past, credible progress towards achieving the UN target can only be made through restoring sustainable growth in the economy. This is the Government’s absolute priority and we are working extremely hard to achieve this goal.
The 2013 budget is a matter for consideration by Government.
For 2013 our focus will remain on working with some of the world poorest countries, particularly those in sub Saharan Africa. We will continue to meet the enormous challenges of reducing poverty and eradicating global hunger, working through our well established partners in the key areas of health, HIV and Aids, education and improving governance structures. We will continue to provide vital humanitarian assistance to those caught up in emergencies and crisis situations and to support the United Nations and other International Organisations in their development programmes.
This Government remains ambitious for, and committed to, the aid programme. We are determined to maintain and build on its high international reputation, and to ensure that it continues to build the foundation of real change, future prosperity and wellbeing in the lives of many of the world’s poorest people.