Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I share some of the concerns expressed by Deputy Smith. We acknowledge the contribution of €30 billion from the EU, which is the largest donor. Everybody wants to ensure that the people for whom it is intended gain the most benefit from it. I note that part of the agreement is that the recipient countries will engage in good governance, human rights and democratic principles. We know this is not happening in the area of human rights. I do not think the EU is robust enough on that issue.

There is also the other aspect of climate. I wish to raise a question on how great an issue climate is for recipients. We have discussed at our meetings that we seem to give with one hand and take with the other hand and there is no joined-up thinking. We come back to the issues of accountability, good governance, the best use of resources and robust practice in aid effectiveness. In my limited experience from the few African countries I have visited they want to do business with Irish companies because of the reputation that most Irish companies have.