Ms Suzanne Keatinge:

In response to Deputy Stanton's question about the media, I agree that we need to see more media coverage of what is happening outside Ireland. I know that our members are concerned, especially since the end of last year. The committee has heard from my colleagues that the Irish public want to hear more. They support overseas development assistance, ODA. Our survey said that 79% believe that ODA is effective in bringing about positive change. It is a challenge for us all to get more stories and coverage in the media. They should bring hope and positivity rather than always being too overwhelming.

The sustainable development goals, SDGs, are probably close to the Chair's heart, since he signed them in 2015. I agree that there is a sense that they are falling off the rails. When talking to our members, there is a sense that if ever something like the SDG framework was needed, it is now. I will admit that we probably did not know the word "Covid" in 2015 but the beauty of the SDG framework is that it shows the links between things like climate, conflict and now Covid. That relationship is important. The SDGs demand partnership and collaboration to solve these complex problems. Within our community and Coalition 2030, we will continue to challenge the Government to do more. The year 2030 is not that far away. This framework is needed now more than ever. Remember that even when it was being signed in 2015, there was a concern about the funding gap. That has not gone away. That is why our conversation on ODA is so important and relevant to the roadmap.

I thank the Chair. I hope we have answered most of the questions. If there are any more, we would be happy to answer them.