Last week we debated the Book of Estimates for 2003 and there were cuts right across the board – in education, health, the national development plan and, of course, overseas development aid. Particularly on the capital side, we testified to the savage cuts which will have a huge impact on the economy. Of all the areas to cut, to cut the figure for ODA is nothing short of immoral. It is a disgrace, inhumane and indefensible. However, we are not alone. At the time of their participation in the UN financing and development conference in April 2000 in Monterey, the wealthiest nations had never given less in aid. Total ODA from the 22 donor countries amounted to $53.7 billion in 2000, down 0.4% in real terms since 1999. In the ten years since 1992, aid has declined in real terms by almost 12%. Only five countries meet the UN target of 0.7% and, sadly, Ireland is not among them.