Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 24 April 2013

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade

Overseas Development Issues: Discussion with Centre for Global Development and GOAL

4:30 pm

Photo of Michael MullinsMichael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. Andrews and Mr. Glasgow. Probably the most frightening comment Mr. Andrews made in his presentation was that we are looking at the worst humanitarian crisis since the Cold War. That should send shock waves throughout the world. Senator Norris spoke about lack of media interest and coverage. What can we do to alert the international community and news agencies to the appalling situation that is developing? We have seen a certain amount of coverage but very few people would be aware that the death toll has doubled since December, which is only four months ago.

That only 20% of the promised aid has been delivered is a matter of grave concern given that this country and its people have been pretty generous in contributing to various organisations raising funds for Syria. It is most disappointing and annoying that high-profile countries and countries that are much richer than us have not met the commitments they gave.

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