John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)

My question was similar to that of Deputy Higgins and the Minister of State's answer was also similar. I come at it somewhat differently, however. Unfortunately, the notion being put out by certain individuals that the Irish Aid budget, which was €800 million or €900 million is ending up in the pockets of corrupt officials has gained credence in Ireland. When one takes the €95 million cut recently, apart from the aid agencies and NGOs involved, there was not, unfortunately, a public outcry for the reason I have just mentioned and also because of where we find ourselves, economically.

The Government needs to make up its mind. If it is committed to what is left of the Irish Aid budget, it needs to do a better job convincing the public that the money that goes to Africa, in particular, is keeping people alive, and is well spent and of a critical nature. However, if it is planning to play it by ear, while holding out the option of further cuts, it should say so. I believe there is some slight ambiguity creeping into Government thinking when it comes to the Irish Aid budget, and there is no point in it denying that. The stark reality of what we have seen last week is a 10% pay cut for a nurse or a garda, for example. The reality is, however, that the €95 million cut will mean that people die. The question I asked was where the Minister of State was going to cut the €95 million from the overall budget and whether he can comment on the methodology involved.

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