Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

As the Deputy is aware, the programme for Government states that Ireland is committed to reaching the target of 0.7% of GDP. All the countries which signed up to the agreement aspire to this goal and we are working very hard to reach it. I acknowledge that there has been a reduction of approximately 30% in the level of our contribution in recent years and that the figure currently stands at 0.52% of GDP. While obviously I cannot inform the Deputy with regard to what is going to be in the budget, he will be aware of what is contained in the programme for Government. As Minister of State with responsibility for trade and development, I am fighting hard to ensure we get back on the right track. There is no doubt we will face a challenge in this regard, especially in light of our current economic circumstances. We are doing everything possible to ensure we get matters back on an even keel and proceed to increase the level of our contribution.

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