Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
684. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland met the UN target of spending at least 0.15% of its gross national income on overseas development assistance to less development countries in 2015 and 2016; and if it is expected to reach this target in 2017 and 2018. [27115/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s aid programme, and to its place at the heart of our foreign policy. We are proud of its international reputation, with its sharp focus on reducing poverty, eradicating hunger and responding effectively to humanitarian crises. The geographic focus of the programme is on Sub-Saharan Africa, where we work with the poorest communities, particularly in our key partner countries. We are delivering real and sustainable improvements to the lives of some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people in the areas of basic health, education, agriculture, and food production.
Each year the OECD Development Assistance Committee publishes detailed statistical information for each country’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) flows to developing countries. For 2015, the most recent year for which comprehensive figures were published, the OECD estimate that almost 50% of Ireland’s total ODA was directed to least developed countries. This amounts to just over 0.15 % of Gross National Income, ensuring Ireland met the UN target. Ireland is playing a leading role internationally in focusing on the needs and role of the least developed countries.
Final figures for 2016 will be published by the OECD later this year. Based on current indications and the increased level of overall spending on ODA in 2016, I am confident Ireland will again meet this target.
