Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 November 2013
106. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his Department has examined the level of reduction in the overseas aid budget of other EU-IMF programme countries; his views on whether the current percentage of expenditure is sustainable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48804/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is strongly committed to Ireland's overseas aid programme and to its place at the heart of Irish foreign policy. The programme reflects the values and generosity of spirit of the Irish people and is a concrete expression of our determination to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Our new policy on international development - One World, One Future - maintains the Government's focus on assisting some of the world's poorest countries and communities, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa. It also takes account of Ireland's future economic and trading interests, as developing countries grow their economies and generate their own revenues, while we continue to enhance our ties with them. It also reconfirms the Government's commitment to achieving the UN target of contributing 0.7% of GNP in Official Development Assistance (ODA) when economic circumstances permit.
Over the past few years, despite the very difficult economic circumstances facing the country and the unprecedented demands on the exchequer, this Government has managed to largely stabilise our ODA budget. In all the circumstances, this is a very significant achievement and a clear demonstration of the Government's commitment to the programme. Ireland's total ODA budget for next year is expected to be set at some €602 million, compared with €622 million in 2013. This is slightly less than 50 cent in every €100 of our national income.
The most recent data published by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) relates to 2012 and confirms that the ODA budgets of many donor countries, including Ireland, have been reduced as a result of the financial crisis. Details of donor ODA spending in 2013 will be published by the DAC in the spring of next year.
