Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The parameters of a useful agreement at Addis Ababa would need to be broad if they are to support the new sustainable development goals, which we hope will be adopted in New York in September. These goals are universal in nature and will be implemented by all countries. It is essential, therefore, that all contribute to a successful outcome to the finance and development conference in Addis Ababa.

I will make a brief reference to the Government's commitment to Ireland's overseas aid programme which is at the heart of our foreign policy. It is articulated in the recently published document, The Global Island: Ireland's Foreign Policy for a Changing World. Our policy on international development restates the programme for Government commitment to achieving the United Nation's target of providing 0.7% of GNP for overseas development aid once our economic circumstances permit. Since 2011, the Government has allocated more than €3 billion to overseas development aid. In 2011, some €657 million was allocated, and between 2012 and 2013 the level of contribution increased from €629 million to €637 million. The final outturn for 2014 shows Ireland contributed slightly in excess of €610 million to overseas aid. For 2015, we have again allocated a sum in excess of €600 million to overseas development aid. We will continue to endeavour to increase this sum until we reach the committed target.

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