Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 January 2019
144. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the bilateral aid programme continues to assist those in most need globally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4403/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s international development cooperation programme, and to its place at the heart of our foreign policy. In line with our commitment to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, our bilateral aid programme is focused on reducing poverty and hunger, promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, and building more equitable and better systems of governance.
In additional to assistance delivered through multilateral channels, during 2017 Ireland provided over €430 million in bilateral aid which was targeted at the least developed countries of the world with Sub-Saharan Africa a priority focus. This aid is given in support of countries’ development needs and through the provision of humanitarian assistance in response to emergencies and protracted crises. Final figures for bilateral aid in 2018 are being collated and will be published in the Irish Aid annual report later this year.
Our bilateral aid is delivering real and sustainable improvements in the lives of the poorest in the areas of basic health, education, agriculture, and food production. In 2018, the Overseas Development Institute, found that Ireland had the most effective support on ending extreme poverty compared to other international donors.
Ireland will continue to maintain a priority focus on those countries and people that are furthest behind and support them in making progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The Government committed in the Global Ireland strategy to delivering the 0.7% target for ODA by 2030. This will facilitate an increase in Ireland's future bilateral aid contribution. In order to prepare for this, a new strategy on international development is currently being finalised.
