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

Ireland has a long-standing and internationally respected tradition of contributing overseas aid in various forms, as peacekeepers, mediators and through the work of missionaries, medical and nursing personnel. The contributions of this country through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through other Departments and statutory agencies and, in particular, through Irish Aid in untied overseas aid have repeatedly received international praise.

The Government commitment in 2011 to provide 0.7% of GNP for ODA has not been reached, although I welcome the increase for 2016. Will the Minister indicate the particular proposals he has to reach 0.7% of GNP, given this has been outlined once again by the Taoiseach and the Minister, Deputy Flanagan?

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