Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Government is deeply concerned by the continued threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism to peace and security around the world, including on the African continent. The recent UN report referred to by the Deputy makes the case clearly that terrorism and violent extremism, in addition to destroying lives, undermines development gains and threatens to hold back progress for generations to come. The report also notes the unique role for development projects in addressing structural drivers of poverty, food insecurity and conflict. Ireland prioritises such a comprehensive approach through our international development programme, and in our bilateral engagement with partners in Africa, at the UN and as a member of the European Union. We believe that efforts to address terrorism and violent extremism in Africa require integrated approaches that seek to address the drivers of violence and root causes of instability. Communities affected by conflict, poverty, inequality, discrimination, poor governance and human rights violations are clearly more vulnerable to radicalisation and recruitment. We also recognise the links between climate change and conflict, and that terrorist organisations exploit those in vulnerable and precarious conditions for recruitment purposes.

Ireland works to ensure that the protection of civilians, humanitarian need, and development for local populations are at the centre of EU and international efforts. We demonstrated this consistently during our term on the UN Security Council, and we are continuing to work closely with the African Union and African sub-regional organisations. Humanitarian needs in parts of Africa remain acute, and Ireland continues to respond through our development programme. Irish support continues to target those most in need. Last year, for instance, we provided a total of €100 million in assistance to the Horn of Africa. In addition, Ireland supports UN and EU missions in Africa and is currently contributing personnel to three EU peace support missions on the continent.

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