Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to thank Mr. Ging and his colleague, Emer O'Connell, for their attendance here today and for the very comprehensive manner in which they dealt with the queries raised by the members. The picture outlined for us of the huge number of crises throughout the world is very stark. We wish Mr. Ging and his colleagues well in the very important work they are undertaking in so many difficult areas in the world.

I also want to record our appreciation of the work of our NGOs and their sister organisations around the world, whose personnel are working in the most difficult and dangerous situations, bringing great relief and help to so many people who are destitute. I would further like to record our appreciation of the work of our ambassadors and their support staff in the partner countries because it is very important. Mr. Ging gave a clear message that Irish aid is well directed and put to very good use. That is a message that we want to send clearly to the taxpayers who make it possible to deliver that aid. Again, I thank Mr. Ging very much for his presentation.